[kdo6905]

I am a new RN that works on a Med Surg floor. A job opportunity has come up for a software company that advertises itself as a job in nursing informatics. The job title is clinical implementation coordinator. I don't have a grasp of the informatics lingo to know if this is a good opportunity. What do you think?
PS Will be working on my PhD in Nursing this fall.

[rninformatics]

Originally posted by kdo6905
I am a new RN that works on a Med Surg floor. A job opportunity has come up for a software company that advertises itself as a job in nursing informatics. The job title is clinical implementation coordinator. I don't have a grasp of the informatics lingo to know if this is a good opportunity. What do you think?
PS Will be working on my PhD in Nursing this fall.

Whether or not "this is a good opportunity" depends on what you are looking for. It varies with the vendor/ institiution but it sounds like this role would be responsible for coordinating/directing the implementation process. If as you write you "don't have a grasp of the informatics lingo" I'd assume you also may not (yet) have the knowledge and skill set required for this role.

Implementation is the process of installing a system/software. Depending on the scope of the project - it can include everything from hard wiring the area to installing a wireless network, to ordering the devices (PCs, laptops, handhelds, tablets, etc), to building/configuring the actual system.

The "system" may be just one application such as the one that will be used to enter orders - the order entry system or it may be the installation of multiple applications such as those that support multiple departments such as an ADT (admission/discharge/transfer) system, scheduling and or clinical documentation. Project management and implementations are huge jobs demanding a great deal related to time committment (you wrote you will be beginning work on your PhD).

I would think this position requires that you have a solid background and experience (you wrote you are a "new RN") in a clinical area, previous IS/IT/ project management experience and thoroughly understand how the healthcare system works related to processes, work flow, change management, etc.

If this would potentially be your first informatics/IT position it might be biting off more than you can chew. Find out more about the position: detailed job description/responsiblies, expectations, etc.

The vendor may very well be willing to provide you with OJT (on the job training). Just be aware of what is required in both time committment and learning curve ..and if this is really what you want to do - GO FOR IT!

e-mail me at RNinformatics@msn.com if you have any other questions.