Jedwab, Rebecca M., Langtree, Tanya G., LoPresti, Kate C., Jones, Aaron J., and Dobroff, Naomi (2025) Exploring Australian nursing and midwifery informatics roles: A scoping review. Collegian. (In Press)

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Abstract

Background: Digital health technologies are changing the context of nursing and midwifery practice. There are varying degrees of knowledge and adoption of digital health technologies in Australian healthcare systems. While nursing and midwifery informatics is an emerging specialty within Australia, little is known about the scope, roles, and benefits of informatics roles in Australia.

Review question: What are the scope, responsibilities, benefits, and limitations of nursing and midwifery informatics roles throughout Australia?

Methods: A scoping review was used to address the review question, and the mixed-methods appraisal tool was used to guide generalisability and interpretation of included records. Five healthcare and digital health databases, as well as grey literature, reference lists, and published resources related to nursing and midwifery informatics between 2010 and 2024 were searched.

Findings: Four records were identified that partially addressed the review question. The scope, roles, and responsibilities of nursing and midwifery informaticians remain poorly understood.

Discussion: Nurses and midwives need further education about digital health technologies and their place in an ever-changing work environment. Professional development activities that enhance understanding about digital health and informatics would be beneficial to address this gap, regardless of nurses’ and midwives’ current educational level or role. A standardised approach to defining Australian nursing and midwifery informatics, including the scope, roles, and responsibilities of informaticians, would support better understanding, applicability, and usability within the workforce.

Conclusion: Despite literature supporting the need for dedicated nursing and midwifery informatics roles, the evidence and value of these roles are yet to be defined and quantified.

Item ID:	84704
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1876-7575
Keywords:	Digital technology Health workforce Nursing and midwifery informatics Professional role
Copyright Information:	© 2025 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Date Deposited:	18 Feb 2025 21:53
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