Healthcare Cybersecurity Rely on Nurses for Their Integral Role
Transforming Nurse Workflows Through Technology: The Role of Nurses in Cybersecurity
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, the importance of integrating technology into nurse workflows is becoming increasingly apparent. This transformation is a topic of discussion among industry leaders, with Jill Ellis, a nurse, solutions expert, and nursing leader at NRC Health, highlighting the significance of having nurses at the table and on teams involved in cybersecurity planning.
Teri Young, a nurse and vice president of clinical systems and chief of clinical informatics at University of Maryland Medical System, echoes this sentiment. She stresses the need for nurses to be represented in the IT space to establish a connection between technical folks and the nursing staff. Young notes that nurses, as the largest employee group in healthcare and frequent users of medical records, are crucial players in this digital revolution.
The growing recognition of the need for nursing leadership to be more actively involved in crafting security practices is a trend that Young and Ellis both endorse. The University of Maryland Medical System, while not publicly naming specific representatives of nurses in the IT area, does have liaison roles involving nursing and quality management. These roles, such as assistant nurse manager roles, act as intermediaries between technical staff and nursing staff.
Kerry Barker, a nurse and interim account manager of Epic Services at CereCore, underscores the need for secure mobile solutions that do not tie nurses to a desktop machine and keyboard while maintaining protection from cybersecurity issues. Barker also suggests relevant training for nurses, involving scenarios that are more true to life for nurses, as a key component of cybersecurity strategies.
One simple method proposed by Barker to protect patient information is the practice of logging out or securing screens before leaving workstations or phones. Another potential risk identified by Barker is the issue of instant-messaging or texting patient's names or medical record information, which could pose a cybersecurity risk.
Young emphasises the importance of spreading education to ensure that nurses are included in security practices. She also highlights the role of greater transparency, where colleagues and other organizations share their experiences, in raising awareness and ensuring that nurses are included in security discussions.
Recently, the University of Maryland Medical System conducted a tabletop security exercise for a cyber event, which included involving a group of nurses. They also had an entire group of nurses reviewing and revising their downtime policy approach as an organization.
From Barker's perspective, nursing should always be included in planning for cybersecurity approaches. She mentions the challenge of finding a balance between annual required training and ensuring vigilance about cybersecurity for nurses. Young mentions the importance of finding this balance to ensure that nurses remain vigilant without being overwhelmed by training.
In conclusion, the transformation of nurse workflows through technology requires the active involvement of nurses in cybersecurity planning. This includes representing nurses in the IT space, providing relevant training, and ensuring transparency in security discussions. By doing so, we can ensure the protection of patient information and the smooth operation of healthcare systems in the digital age.
Read also:
- Trump's SNAP reductions and New York City Council's grocery delivery legislation: Problems for city residents highlighted
- Reducing dental expenses for elderlies in Sweden: Over 50% cut in charges for pensioners by the government
- Forty-year-old diet: A list of meal choices to savor
- Exiled Life's Conundrum: A Blend of Liberation, Disillusionment, and Distress
