Nursing informatics continuum 4 controlling the

NURSING INFORMATICS CONTINUUM 4
controlling the nausea and vomiting of those with CHS (2016). Moore found that, in addition to
haloperidol and cessation of marijuana use, application of topical capsaicin cream to the
abdomen also relieved the symptoms of CHS (2017).
Knowledge step of the continuum. Further interpreting the information for
understanding is the third step in the nursing informatics continuum. Reading through the
articles found in the literature search with special focus on the treatment options, and committing
those options to memory is how this step was accomplished. Special attention was also paid to
the pathophysiology of why the listed treatments were effective when traditional treatments were
not.
Wisdom step of the continuum. Wisdom is “knowing when and how to apply
knowledge to deal with complex problems or specific human need” (Nelson, 2002; Nelson &
Joos, 1989 as cited by Nelson & Staggers, p. 98, 2015). Taking the knowledge acquired during
this literature search and applying it to my next patient with CHS is how wisdom step of the
nursing informatics continuum is accomplished.
Usable Knowledge
According to Nelson and Staggers, “the appropriate use of knowledge involves the
integration of empirical, ethical, personal, and aesthetic knowledge in the process of
implementing actions” (p. 99, 2015). Recognizing the patient who presents with symptoms
suggestive of CHS and for whom traditional anti-emetic treatment is ineffective, and offering
suggestions to the provider on alternative treatment options is an example of taking the step from
knowledge to wisdom on the continuum. By having a firm understanding of the treatment
options and the ability to understand when those options are applicable, and to which patients, is
an example of how usable knowledge is created by the nursing informatics continuum.

NURSING INFORMATICS CONTINUUM 5
Summary
Nursing informatics plays an important role in all nursing specialties. The nursing