Application of the OMAHA System in the education of nursing students: A systematic review and narrative synthesis

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize evidence on the application of the Omaha System in the education of nursing students and to provide advice for educators to apply the Omaha System to practice and research effectively and meaningfully.

Background: It is a necessary part of nursing education to provide students with informatics experience. The Omaha System is a standardized nursing terminology designed to enhance practice, documentation, and information management.

Design: A systematic review and narrative synthesis.

Methods: Studies from eight databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, China Biology Medicine disc, CNKI, Wanfang Data) were systematically retrieved. Twenty-three articles were found and synthesized.

Results: Existing studies showed that the Omaha System was mainly applied in student community practice as a tool for guiding practice and collecting information, and the practice data were used by educators to analyse the outcomes of nursing education. Recently, the Omaha System was introduced into the classroom environment and achieved positive results in terms of teaching. Students' feedback on the use of the Omaha System was generally positive.

Conclusions: The Omaha System can be an active teaching and learning tool for nursing education, and further research is needed to explore and realize its potential in the field of education.

Keywords: Education; Nursing informatics; Omaha System; Standardized nursing terminology.