What is the first step a nurse informatician should take when designing a protocol to decrease the risk of urinary tract infections?

The first step a nurse informatician should take when designing a protocol to decrease the risk of urinary tract infections is to meet with the nursing staff. This step is crucial because it allows the informatician to gather insights directly from those who are at the forefront of patient care. Engaging with nursing staff enables the identification of current practices, challenges, and specific areas where improvements may be needed. Their firsthand experience is vital in understanding the context in which the protocol will be implemented.

By meeting with the nursing staff, the informatician can foster collaboration and ensure that the protocol being developed is practical, relevant, and tailored to actual clinical workflows. This initial engagement paves the way for more in-depth discussions, such as interviewing staff for specific feedback and later decisions about assessment tools or designing screens. Gathering input from nursing staff creates a foundation of support for the new protocol and helps anticipate potential barriers to implementation.