The NHS knowledge and skills framework requires staff to have communications and computer knowledge commensurate with their roles. Dawn Dowding reports on a study to identify whether employers are conforming to this standard

This article discusses the knowledge management skills required by nurses in the context of the government’s information strategy for England and Wales, which highlights the importance of managing data in providing efficient health care. It also reports on a study that looked at whether employers’ job descriptions and person specifications include the need for basic information and communication technology skills outlined in the NHS knowledge and skills framework (Agenda for Change Project Team 2004), and the degree to which these skills are regarded as important to good nursing care.