Information and Knowledge Management

Health Literacy has been defined as “the cognitive and social skills which determine the motivation and ability of individuals to gain access to, understand and use information in ways which promote and maintain good health” (World Health Organization (WHO), 2017).

Health Literacy is more than  individual behaviour, it includes the environmental, political and social factors that determine health. Health education should thus  influence not only individual lifestyle decisions, but also raise awareness of the determinants of health, and encourage individuals and communities to interact, participate and critically analyze factors influencing health literacy.

Nurses need to be able to share information with their patients, families and communities, and direct them to relevant and reputable resources.

Understanding health literacy and it’s implication to patient care is necessary for patient education.