Put Your Computer Skills to Work

Basic computer skills are essential to almost any career now, and nursing is no exception. You will need word processing skills and a good understanding of how to research topics on the Internet in order to survive college or vocational school. Health care is rapidly becoming automated, from programmable pumps for IVs to computerized medical records. A comfort level in utilizing computers is essential for anyone pursuing a nursing career today. Technology is going to rapidly come to the forefront of efforts to improve patients’ safety and access to health care and outcomes, as well as to contain costs. The Internet can provide you with all sorts of information, such as the latest news on recent discoveries about diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes. You can access information about support groups and organizations that support research. You can find information about health care legislation being proposed and voted on. You can join listservs and receive updates and discussions via e-mail. Just make sure that the sources for your information are well known and qualified!