Final answer:
The 5 defining characteristics of nursing informatics as a specialty area of practice are data management and analysis, communication and collaboration, information technology and computer science, research and evidence-based practice, and patient care and workflow optimization.
Step-by-step explanation:
- Data management and analysis: Nurses in the informatics field are responsible for collecting, organizing, and analyzing healthcare data to improve patient care and outcomes.
- Communication and collaboration: Nursing informaticians facilitate effective communication and collaboration between healthcare professionals, patients, and technology systems.
- Information technology and computer science: This characteristic involves the use and development of technology tools and systems to manage, store, and disseminate health information.
- Research and evidence-based practice: Nursing informatics practitioners contribute to research and incorporate evidence-based practices to enhance the quality of patient care.
- Patient care and workflow optimization: Nursing informatics focuses on optimizing care delivery processes, improving workflows, and ensuring patient safety through the use of technology.