RNI Experts
Just-In-Time Information
Nurses as information workers need information at the bedside. RNI uses two main sources of expert help to satisfy their just-in-time needs. Personal digital assistants (PDA) with a nursing suite of software applications are carried by interns to each bedside. The PDA answers questions immediately, providing evidence based information. Interns who are currently using the PDA have said:
- "I pulled up drug information that permitted the physician to make an informed decision about a better medication for the patient."
- "The PDA knew information that my supervisor didn't know."
Interns are encouraged to use PDAs much as they use their stethescopes. The small computers provide calculators, drug information, text books, and patient education materials.
Nurse experts in urban centers have volunteered their
expertise to answer questions and provide specialized
education on demand. This resource expands the capability
of the residency program to meet any need a new rural
employee may have. Experts in geriatric, psychiatric,
pediatric, obstetric, emergency and medical/surgical
nursing are available to interns to plan or debrief
individual cases.