Embedded structures and representation of nursing knowledge

J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2000 Nov-Dec;7(6):539-49. doi: 10.1136/jamia.2000.0070539.

Abstract

Nursing Vocabulary Summit participants were challenged to consider whether reference terminology and information models might be a way to move toward better capture of data in electronic medical records. A requirement of such reference models is fidelity to representations of domain knowledge. This article discusses embedded structures in three different approaches to organizing domain knowledge: scientific reasoning, expertise, and standardized nursing languages. The concept of pressure ulcer is presented as an example of the various ways lexical elements used in relation to a specific concept are organized across systems. Different approaches to structuring information-the clinical information system, minimum data sets, and standardized messaging formats-are similarly discussed. Recommendations include identification of the polyhierarchies and categorical structures required within a reference terminology, systematic evaluations of the extent to which structured information accurately and completely represents domain knowledge, and modifications or extensions to existing multidisciplinary efforts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Decision Support Systems, Clinical / organization & administration
  • Decision Support Systems, Clinical / standards
  • Information Management / methods*
  • Information Systems / organization & administration*
  • Information Systems / standards
  • Medical Records Systems, Computerized / organization & administration
  • Medical Records Systems, Computerized / standards
  • Nursing / standards*
  • Terminology as Topic
  • Vocabulary, Controlled*