The qualities that define an exceptional nurse have expanded beyond traditional boundaries. For decades, healthcare employers have recognised the importance of IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and EQ (Emotional Intelligence) when recruiting nursing talent. IQ has been valued for its association with problem-solving abilities and quick thinking in critical situations, while EQ has been prized for its role in patient care, empathy, and effective team collaboration.

However, as we navigate the digital transformation of healthcare, a new dimension of competence has emerged as equally crucial: DQ, or Digital Intelligence. DQ represents a critical set of skills needed to thrive in the digital age, particularly in healthcare. It is defined by the DQInstitute as ‘a comprehensive set of technical, cognitive, meta-cognitive, and socio-emotional competencies that are grounded in universal moral values and that enable individuals to face the challenges and harness the opportunities of digital life’

To help individuals upskill for a digital future, The DQInstitute has created the world’s first Global Standard on Digital Literacy, Digital Skills, and Digital Readiness (IEEE 3527.1™ Standard)

While the DQInstitute’s standard is not for nurses alone, with digital health growing rapidly, DQ has become an essential ability to navigate electronic health records seamlessly, leverage AI-assisted diagnostic tools, engage in telemedicine, and utilise digital platforms for patient education and care coordination. It also involves the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate digital information sources, understand the ethical implications of technology in healthcare, and adapt to rapidly evolving digital tools and platforms.

Understanding the digital literacy checklist for nurses

The digital literacy checklist for nurses covers seven key areas that are crucial for providing high-quality patient care in a technology-driven healthcare setting.

Data and AI literacy involves understanding basic AI concepts and terminology, recognising common AI applications in everyday healthcare scenarios, and grasping fundamental data analysis techniques. Nurses with strong data and AI literacy can effectively interpret patient data, use AI-powered diagnostic tools, and contribute to data-driven decision-making processes within their healthcare organisations.

Content creation skills includes proficiency in writing for different platforms and audiences, such as patient education materials, clinical reports, and professional communications. Nurses should be able to create and edit visual content, such as instructional videos or infographics, to enhance patient understanding and to mentor the next generation of nurses.

Media literacy helps nurses to evaluate information sources, identify bias and misinformation in health-related media, and understand different types of media and their purposes. This skill is crucial for nurses to guide patients through the often-confusing landscape of online health information and to stay informed about the latest developments in healthcare.

Information literacy complements media literacy by enabling nurses to efficiently search for and locate reliable information, evaluate the credibility and relevance of that information, and synthesise data from multiple sources.

Digital tool proficiency includes familiarity with common AI and data analysis tools used in healthcare settings, competence in using content creation software for patient education and professional communication, and understanding social media platforms and analytics for health promotion and community engagement.

Ethical considerations in digital literacy are paramount in healthcare. Nurses must be aware of data privacy and security issues, understand the ethical implications of AI use and development in healthcare, and have knowledge of copyright and fair use in content creation. This ensures that nurses can navigate the complex ethical landscape of digital healthcare while protecting patient rights and maintaining professional integrity.

Continuous learning is essential in the rapidly evolving digital healthcare environment. Nurses must stay updated on emerging technologies and trends, participate in relevant online courses or workshops, and engage in practical projects to apply and improve their digital skills.

The importance of digital literacy in nursing

Digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity in nursing practice. Nurses who possess strong digital skills across these seven areas are better positioned to provide efficient, accurate, and patient-centred care. They can navigate complex health information systems, leverage data for informed decision-making, and use technology to improve patient outcomes.

Digitally literate nurses also contribute to the overall efficiency of healthcare organisations. They can adapt quickly to new technologies, reduce errors in documentation, and enhance communication among healthcare teams. This adaptability and efficiency translate into improved patient satisfaction, reduced costs, and better overall healthcare outcomes.

For hospitals and healthcare employers, having a digitally competent nursing workforce is essential for staying competitive in the current – and future – healthcare landscape. When healthcare organisations implement new technologies smoothly, they maintain compliance with digital health regulations, and provide cutting-edge patient care services.

Recruiting digitally literate nurses

To attract nurses with strong digital skills across the seven areas of the checklist, healthcare organisations should consider partnering with specialised healthcare recruitment agencies. These agencies often have a deep understanding of the technological demands in healthcare and can effectively screen candidates for digital literacy.

At Charisma Healthcare Solutions, we ask healthcare organisations for specific examples of how digital skills are applied in their organisation’s daily operations so that we can match the right nursing talent with each healthcare providers needs.[MM1]  It’s a good idea to highlight your organisation’s commitment to digital innovation during the recruitment process. Showcase your advanced EHR systems, telemedicine programs, or partnerships