The term “knowledge worker” was first coined by management consultant and author Peter Drucker in his book, The Landmarks of Tomorrow (1959)
The term “knowledge worker” was first coined by management consultant and author Peter Drucker in his book, The Landmarks of Tomorrow (1959). Drucker defined knowledge workers as high-level workers who apply theoretical and analytical knowledge, acquired through formal training, to develop products and services. Does this sound familiar?
Nurses are very much knowledge workers. What has changed since Drucker’s time are the ways that knowledge can be acquired. The volume of data that can now be generated and the tools used to access this data have evolved significantly in recent years and helped healthcare professionals (among many others) to assume the role of knowledge worker in new and powerful ways.
consider the evolving role of the nurse leader and how this evolution has led nurse leaders to assume the role of knowledge worker. You will prepare a PowerPoint presentation with an infographic (graphic that visually represents information, data, or knowledge. Infographics are intended to present information quickly and clearly.) to educate others on the role of nurse as knowledge worker.
Sample Answer
The Evolving Role of the Nurse Leader
The role of the nurse leader has evolved significantly in recent years. In the past, nurse leaders were primarily responsible for managing nurses and ensuring that they provided quality care. However, today’s nurse leaders are also responsible for managing data, using technology, and making decisions based on evidence.
This evolution is due to a number of factors, including:
- The increasing volume and complexity of healthcare data.
- The development of new technologies that can be used to collect and analyze data.
- The growing emphasis on evidence-based practice.