The role of technology in nursing

The role of technology in nursing

Technology’s role in nursing changes as technology itself evolves. With new tools and resources that enhance patient care and streamline healthcare delivery, the nursing sector is being transformed by technology. Technology helps nurses work more efficiently and empowers patients to be more involved in their healthcare. Keep reading to understand how technology impacts nursing and what might come in the future. Exploring the impact of technology in nursing:

Whether you’re starting your nursing career or you’re an experienced nurse, staying informed about current innovations and trends is essential to remain competitive and provide the best care for your patients.

The history and evolution of technology in nursing

The use of technology in nursing dates back to the early 20th century, when nurses started using X-rays and advanced diagnostic tools. Technology in nursing continued to advance in the 1950s and 1960s with the introduction of electronic vital signs monitors and computerized charting systems.

Advancements in nursing technology continued in the 1970s and 1980s with the adoption of telemedicine, electronic medical records, and other forms of telecommunication in nursing. Throughout the 1990s, technology in nursing progressed further, with the introduction of electronic prescribing systems and the expansion of mobile technology, such as smartphones and tablets.

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Today, technology in nursing plays an even larger role in patient care due to the widespread use of electronic health records, telemedicine, and remote patient monitoring. New technologies like machine learning, robotics, and artificial intelligence are also being explored for potential use in nursing.

What are the different types of nursing technologies?

There’s ongoing debate about the role of technology in nursing. Some people rely on anecdotal evidence and statistics to support their claims. It’s important to note that most nurses agree that technology plays a significant role in their efforts to improve patient care.

Nursing technology is rapidly advancing. Here are some technological developments that are helping healthcare practitioners provide better care:

Telehealth

Telehealth is a relatively new but valuable addition to healthcare. People can use virtual video chats to consult with nurses or doctors from hospitals and clinics, describing their symptoms or showing physical issues like bruises or rashes. Patients benefit from quick diagnoses without needing to leave their homes.

They can receive medical advice, get prescriptions, or determine whether a visit to the hospital is necessary for further testing or diagnosis. Both doctors and patients save time and money with telehealth. Additionally, telehealth helps prevent sick individuals from entering public areas and potentially spreading infections to others. It’s also changing how clinics operate and how patient care is delivered.

Technology allows nurses and doctors to assess patients’ vital signs and symptoms remotely, without being physically present in the hospital. This approach gives medical professionals greater control over patient health.

Centralized command centers

Centralized command centers are a recent innovation for hospitals, providing better management of patient encounters and more efficient ways for nurses and doctors to handle capacity, clinical technology, and resources.

Nurses can monitor operating room schedules, available rooms, and patients’ needs before transferring them, all without delays in care transitions.

These command centers, designed to manage capacity, have been successful in hospitals across the board. Many hospitals report operating at higher capacity and providing overall improved patient care.

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Smart beds

Smart beds allow nurses to assess patients’ weight and movements. These beds are essential for ensuring patient safety and comfort during extended hospital stays. Given the high rate of patient falls and injuries in hospitals, smart beds play a crucial role in patient safety.

With smart bed technology, nurses have a continuous in-room monitor that keeps them updated on patients’ behaviors. This technology can also help detect trends that may lead to revised diagnoses or new diagnoses.

 

Using smart beds, caregivers spend less time adjusting medications and hospital equipment for comfort or safety, as these adjustments can be made through the smart bed system. This technology frees up healthcare providers to focus on other essential tasks.

Portable monitors

Portable monitoring technology allows healthcare professionals to monitor patients even when they’re outside their rooms.

In many facilities, nurses can check the readings every hour. Even amidst other tasks, portable monitoring technology enables nurses to consistently track and record data. They can keep an eye on patients from any location within the hospital.

Nurses receive training on using portable monitors specific to their institution. Nursing schools also teach students about the significance and broad application of various common pieces of equipment. Portable monitors can save lives by alerting nurses through alarms.

Wearable devices

Wearable technology is making significant improvements in the healthcare sector. People can manage their health using devices that track heart rate, activity, sleep patterns, respiration, and more.

With more people using smartphones, nurses can now utilize tools and apps that enhance patient care. For example, the Steth IO smartphone stethoscope app allows nurses and doctors to listen to breathing sounds and view heart rates using their smartphones.

Using a smartphone can be less intimidating, especially for younger patients, and gives caregivers access to a wealth of information for simple monitoring of medical needs. Wearable technology is often considered the future of healthcare, encompassing patient monitoring and health tracking.

With access to extensive data, wearable devices have the potential to enhance the entire healthcare process, from diagnosis to recovery.

Automated IV pumps

Automated IV pumps regulate the dosages and drips given to patients. Medical technology and software allow nurses to adjust drip rates and medication dosages without waiting for manual changes. Nutrition IV pumps can deliver essential nutrients at specific intervals. Self-administered pumps are another option, allowing patients to control their own painkiller dosages.

These technological advancements in nursing contribute to more efficient and effective patient care. As technology continues to evolve, nurses and healthcare providers can look forward to more innovations that will enhance their ability to provide quality care.

Advantages and disadvantages of technology in nursing

Advantages

Increased efficiency

Using technology to automate tasks like giving medications and recording information can save time and reduce mistakes for nurses.

Better patient care

Technology lets nurses quickly access and share patient information, which can lead to more accurate treatments and diagnoses.

Remote patient monitoring

With technology, nurses can keep an eye on patients even from afar. This is especially useful for those with chronic illnesses.

Improved communication

Technology helps doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff communicate better, which improves how they work together to care for patients.
Disadvantages

Complexity

Some nurses might struggle with using technology because it can be complicated.

Cost

Buying and maintaining technology can be expensive for healthcare organizations.

Dependence on technology

Nurses who rely too much on technology might not develop good problem-solving skills.

Information technology in nursing

Information technology (IT) has become crucial in nursing, as it improves patient care and efficiency in healthcare. IT examples in nursing include telemedicine and systems that help with making clinical decisions.

Telemedicine allows nurses to monitor and consult patients from a distance. Clinical decision support systems provide real-time data and guidance for patient care. In nursing, IT has the potential to improve patient outcomes by enhancing communication and teamwork.

What’s the future of technology in nursing?

The future of technology in nursing will likely involve more use of electronic health records, telemedicine, and digital tools to enhance patient care and communication.

Remote monitoring systems, which let nurses track patients’ vital signs and clinical data from a distance, might become more common.

Machine learning and artificial intelligence could also play a bigger role in nursing, helping with tasks like monitoring patients, giving medication, and diagnosing conditions.
Impact of technology on nursing

Technology has had a big impact on nursing. Some examples include:

Nurses can access patient information faster through electronic health records (EHRs), leading to better coordination and fewer errors.
Telehealth allows nurses to care for patients in remote or underserved areas, monitoring them from a distance and even doing video calls.
Virtual reality and simulators let nurses practice and improve their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Technology in nursing education

Technology is being used more in nursing education to help students learn better and raise the quality of nursing care. Online tools let students access study materials, take part in group discussions, and submit assignments.

Simulation technology creates realistic, interactive scenarios where students can practice and make decisions in a safe environment.
Barriers to technology in nursing

Despite the benefits, there are still obstacles to using technology in nursing. Some challenges include:

Limited access

Some nurses can’t use technology because of where they live or their financial situation.

Lack of funding

Many medical facilities can’t afford new technology systems.

Resistance to change

Nurses might be hesitant to embrace new technology, making its introduction difficult.

Insufficient training

Nurses might not receive proper training on using new technology, which makes it hard to use effectively.
Conclusion

Technology has brought significant improvements to nursing. It helps nurses provide better care, improves communication and teamwork among healthcare staff, and enhances patient outcomes. If you want more informative articles like this, click here to access more.