In the 21st century, many technological advancements are changing the way we provide healthcare. These changes include electronic health records (EHRs), artificial intelligence (AI), and telemedicine technologies like biosensors.
EHRs, often called digital health records, are digital versions of a patient’s medical history and treatment information. They allow authorized users, such as nursing professionals, doctors, and other healthcare providers, to access this information instantly.
Cowie and their colleagues (2017) mentioned that EHRs help healthcare providers share patient information and coordinate care more efficiently, which is essential for good nursing practice and care coordination.
The Impact of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) on Nursing and Healthcare Delivery
While EHRs make sharing patient information easier, there are concerns about data security and privacy. Sometimes, patient data can end up in the wrong hands, and patients might have limited control over their information once it’s in the system. Teaching hospitals, for research purposes, may need permission to use this data. One challenge with EHRs is that not everyone has internet access, and not all patients are comfortable with technology. Faverio (2022) reported that only about 75% of people aged 65 and older use the internet, leaving a quarter of the older population unable to use apps like My HealtheVet. This highlights an issue with digital literacy and accessibility in healthcare, particularly for seniors, who may need additional digital health tools to manage their care.
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Data Security in Healthcare: Protecting Patient Information in a Digital World
There’s also a debate among doctors and nurses about whether patients should have access to their records. D’Costa and their team (2020) mentioned that some doctors worry that giving patients access to their records could cause stress or overwhelm them. However, apps like My HealtheVet have benefits, too. They can help patients understand their medical information at their own pace, schedule appointments, and communicate with their healthcare providers. In nursing practice, nurse-patient communication can be improved when patients have more control over their health data.
One potential advantage of using EHRs is that it’s easier to track who accesses the data, which can help prevent misuse. However, it can be challenging to coordinate the system with procedures that require the conscious consent of patients, especially those who are seriously ill. There’s always a risk when accessing information online, and the healthcare industry faces ongoing security breaches. According to Georgiev (2022), there have been over 2100 security breaches since 2009, costing more than $6 trillion. These security concerns raise important issues around patient data protection and healthcare cybersecurity.
Telemedicine and Telehealth Nursing: The Future of Remote Patient Care
When it comes to current healthcare trends, telemedicine nursing care is on the rise. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has become more popular. This technology allows people who can’t easily leave their homes or have mobility issues to see a doctor remotely. Patients can use devices at home to send vital data to their doctor’s office, and doctors can monitor their health from a distance. This is part of the larger trend of virtual healthcare, where patients use telehealth platforms for virtual visits. Telehealth nursing can play a critical role in improving patient care by enabling remote patient monitoring, which is especially important for people with chronic conditions or those living in rural areas.
As telemedicine continues to advance, doctors and nurses will be able to gather even more information electronically. This means patients won’t always need to visit their doctor in person, which can improve care coordination and reduce the need for in-office appointments. Additionally, remote patient assessment can help healthcare providers make better decisions without needing a physical exam, which could reduce the spread of infections and provide more timely care.
Addressing Legal, Ethical, and Accessibility Challenges in Healthcare Technology
While these technological advancements have many benefits, there are also challenges related to data privacy regulations, especially around the use of EHRs. With growing concerns about patient data being compromised, the legal implications of using these systems become more important. For example, HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations are critical for ensuring patient privacy and compliance in the healthcare system. At the same time, healthcare law needs to adapt to emerging technologies to protect patients’ rights and address issues like medical malpractice related to EHRs.
Another challenge is the ethical implications of healthcare technology, particularly when it comes to ensuring all patients have access to digital tools. Many patients may not have the same level of digital literacy, and some may feel overwhelmed by complex health information. Nurses and other healthcare professionals must also be aware of the risks of nurse burnout from technology, as more tasks and patient interactions are conducted through digital platforms.
Furthermore, there is growing recognition of the need to improve health literacy and support digital literacy programs for both patients and healthcare providers. Older adults, in particular, may need extra assistance with digital health tools to better manage their health, which underscores the importance of accessibility in healthcare.
Conclusion
In summary, the healthcare field is rapidly evolving with new technologies like EHRs, telemedicine, and AI in nursing. While these advancements offer many benefits, such as better care coordination and improved nurse-patient communication, they also present challenges related to data security, patient understanding, and legal and ethical issues. Predictive analytics for patient outcomes and machine learning in nursing are just a few examples of how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare. These changes will continue to reshape the healthcare landscape, and it’s crucial for nursing professionals to stay informed about the latest tools, regulations, and strategies to provide the best care possible.
References:
Barak-Corren, Y., Castro, V. M., Javitt, S., Hoffnagle, A. G., Dai, Y., Perlis, R. H., Nock, M. K., Smoller, J. W., & Reis, B. Y. (2017). Predicting Suicidal Behavior From Longitudinal Electronic Health Records. In American Journal of Psychiatry (Vol. 174, Issue 2, pp. 154–162). American Psychiatric Association Publishing.https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2016.16010077Links to an external site.
Cowie, M. R., Blomster, J. I., Curtis, L. H., Duclaux, S., Ford, I., Fritz, F., Goldman, S., Janmohamed, S., Kreuzer, J., Leenay, M., Michel, A., Ong, S., Pell, J. P., Southworth, M. R., Stough, W. G., Thoenes, M., Zannad, F., & Zalewski, A. (2016). Electronic health records to facilitate clinical research. In Clinical Research in Cardiology (Vol. 106, Issue 1, pp. 1–9). Springer Science and Business Media LLC.https://doi.org/10.1007/s00392-016-1025-6Links to an external site.
D’Costa, S. N., Kuhn, I. L., & Fritz, Z. (2020). A systematic review of patient access to medical records in the acute setting: practicalities, perspectives and ethical consequences. In BMC Medical Ethics (Vol. 21, Issue 1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC.https://doi.org/10.1186/s12910-020-0459-6Links to an external site.
Rao-Gupta, S., Kruger, D., Leak, L. D., Tieman, L. A., & Manworren, R. C. B. (2018). Leveraging Interactive Patient Care Technology to Improve Pain Management Engagement. In Pain Management Nursing (Vol. 19, Issue 3, pp. 212–221). Elsevier BV.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2017.11.002Links to an external site.
Reflect on the Resources related to digital information tools and technologies.
Consider your healthcare organization’s use of healthcare technologies to manage and distribute information.
Reflect on current and potential future trends, such as use of social media and mobile applications/telehealth, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled asset tracking, or expert systems/artificial intelligence, and how they may impact nursing practice and healthcare delivery.
BY DAY 3 OF WEEK 6
Post a brief description of general healthcare technology trends, particularly related to data/information you have observed in use in your healthcare organization or nursing practice. Describe any potential challenges or risks that may be inherent in the technologies associated with these trends you described. Then, describe at least one potential benefit and one potential risk associated with data safety, legislation, and patient care for the technologies you described. Next, explain which healthcare technology trends you believe are most promising for impacting healthcare technology in nursing practice and explain why. Describe whether this promise will contribute to improvements in patient care outcomes, efficiencies, or data management. Be specific and provide examples.
BY DAY 6 OF WEEK 6
Respond to at least two of your colleagues* on two different days, offering additional/alternative ideas regarding opportunities and risks related to the observations shared.
Healthcare Technology Data Trends
Due to the rapidly changing healthcare environment, there is a large demand for improved efficiency in providing quality healthcare in every healthcare setting. Fortunately, healthcare technology has continued to evolve at a rapid pace to keep up with the demands of the healthcare environment that has changed considerably since the first diagnosis of COVID-19. Since the global pandemic started, numerous issues have arisen that required some type of intervention in order to provide safe, quality patient care. Healthcare technology adaptations, including telemedicine for nursing and remote patient monitoring, have significantly helped to navigate healthcare facilities through the pandemic. EHR (Electronic Health Record) technology has played a key role in improving the management of patient information. Dykes et al. (2017) states that utilizing tools such as checklists and EHR data is beneficial in establishing adherence to new healthcare technology. Although it is important to utilize new healthcare technology, it is also crucial to ensure that staff are able to use it correctly to facilitate organizational change.
One healthcare technology trend in particular that has become a staple in my organization is the use of telehealth in nursing practice. This telehealth platform and technology has been crucial for delivering virtual patient care to those who are unable to see their providers in person due to health concerns or ease of access. In the beginning of the pandemic, it was not uncommon for many patients, as well as providers, to select telemedicine in nursing practice to avoid putting themselves at risk for COVID-19 by visiting a healthcare facility. Telehealth nursing benefits, such as reduced exposure to infection and greater accessibility for patients, became particularly important during this time.
Benefits of Telehealth in Healthcare
In my current healthcare organization, the use of telehealth has become a common practice for all of our patients. Due to COVID-19, many healthcare providers have opted to use telemedicine for nursing to see their patients without putting themselves or the patient at risk for COVID-19. This was incredibly useful for healthcare providers who work at multiple facilities, as they can see patients in person at one facility while seeing others virtually at another. Telehealth accessibility has been particularly beneficial in rural and underserved areas, where healthcare resources are limited. Rak (2021) states that there are clear advantages to being able to provide remote diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment to patients via telehealth, including increasing patient engagement and improving healthcare delivery with technology.
Key Challenges of Telehealth in Nursing
However, there are also many potential challenges associated with telehealth in nursing practice. One of the major challenges has been maintaining HIPAA compliance in telehealth when utilizing mobile devices to initiate the collection of healthcare data and the dissemination of Protected Health Information (PHI), such as medical diagnoses. Many healthcare organizations, including my own, have implemented policies to ensure staff members who are assisting with telehealth appointments are doing so using encrypted forms of communication. For example, my organization purchased a module within the EHR to allow for providers and nurses to send secure messages directly to patients.
Another issue that can develop is incomplete assessments due to not being able to palpate or auscultate through telehealth appointments. In many cases, healthcare providers may request a follow-up appointment that takes place in person to address any assessment concerns. Telehealth tools for nurses can help mitigate this by providing patients with alternative ways to monitor their health remotely, but some limitations still exist. Lastly, digital health literacy remains a barrier for some patients. Telehealth accessibility may be limited for patients who are not comfortable utilizing technology to complete their appointments, which could hinder the widespread adoption of telehealth services.
Despite these potential challenges, telehealth has made a major positive impact on healthcare by increasing access to care and improving the patient experience. Telehealth in nursing practice continues to be an important tool for delivering care, particularly in situations where in-person consultations are not feasible.
Promising Healthcare Technology Trends
Healthcare technology trends post-COVID have increasingly shifted toward virtual healthcare consultations and the integration of telehealth platforms and technology. Telemedicine for nursing has shown promise in increasing healthcare delivery efficiency and reducing the strain on in-person visits. This healthcare technology trend has allowed organizations to see additional patients and increase access to care for many patient populations, particularly those who may not have had access to healthcare otherwise.
With the ongoing use of telehealth, it is important to educate patients on the proper use of telehealth tools for nurses and the overall process of telemedicine in nursing practice. Many organizations assume that patients understand how to access telehealth portals or that they know what to expect during the appointments. Skiba (2017) states that with the ongoing use of healthcare technology tools to provide care, healthcare professionals should be trained on how to appropriately use these tools, and healthcare organizations should educate their patients on them as well to improve digital health literacy. If we are able to increase patients’ digital health literacy, this could increase the number of patients willing to utilize this service and ultimately enhance the accessibility of patient care.
The Importance of Digital Literacy for Telehealth Success
As telemedicine for nursing continues to evolve, the ability for patients to effectively engage with healthcare professionals through virtual patient care depends largely on their digital health literacy. Ensuring that patients can navigate telehealth platforms and technology is key to improving patient engagement via telehealth. Healthcare providers must prioritize telehealth training for nurses and other staff members to make sure they can help patients overcome technology barriers and facilitate smooth virtual visits.
By improving telehealth accessibility and providing the necessary training, we can expand the reach of telehealth and allow more patients to receive high-quality care in the comfort of their own homes. In the post-COVID era, this will be crucial in sustaining the growth and effectiveness of telemedicine in nursing practice and telehealth in nursing practice.
References
Dykes, P. C., Rozenblum, R., Dalal, A., Massaro, A., Chang, F., Clements, M., Collins, S., Bates, D. W. (2017). Prospective evaluation of a
multifaceted intervention to improve outcomes in intensive care: The Promoting Respect and Ongoing Safety Through Patient
Engagement Communication and Technology Study. Critical Care Medicine, 45(8), e806–e813. doi:10.1097/CCM.0000000000002449
Rak, R. (2021). Internet of Everything in Healthcare: Reconciling the Risks and Benefits of Data Sharing in IoT-Enabled Telehealth
Environments. 2021 Eighth International Conference on EDemocracy & EGovernment (ICEDEG), EDemocracy & EGovernment (ICEDEG), 2021
Eighth International Conference On, 223–225. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICEDEG52154.2021.9530853
Skiba, D. (2017). Evaluation tools to appraise social media and mobile applications. Informatics, 4(3), 32–40.
Great read. Another issues I see with Telehealth is the ability to misdiagnose patients. There are are a number of symptoms that mimics other illnesses and the inability to do a proper assessment in searching for certain diseases, which may be a cause for concern. According to (Xiang & Bernard 2021), One of the major challenges of Telehealth is the limitation in the ability to complete a remote neurologic exam especially when evaluating sensation, reflexes, tone, motor strength, and optic nerve function. Without a reliable way to for a remote neurologist to evaluate sensation, tone, reflexes, motor strength, optic nerve function and fundoscopy, the concern poses a risk to patients for misdiagnosis and mismanagement. It may even be time consuming and costly if a lack of proper neurological exam requires over use or over dependence on neuroimaging and other diagnostic test that could have been prevented with a proper and complete assessment of patients. Until further research is done and ways to include all illnesses, Telehealth will be beneficial for some but not all in making a successful diagnosis I believe.
Malliaras, P., Merolli, M. […], and Barton, C. (2021). ‘It’s not hands-on therapy, so it’s very limited’: Telehealth use and views among allied health clinicians during the coronavirus pandemic. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. Doi: 10.1016/j.msksp.2021.102340
I agree that telehealth shows promise that it will be a major contributing component to providing quality care. Patients are able to receive a variety of treatments through telehealth such as mental health treatment, prescription management, skin conditions,follow up appointments, etc. “Virtual visits ensure you get health care wherever you are located – at home, at work or even in your car” (What is Telehealth, 2022). Telehealth has been a major help because it decreases time off from work travel time, the need for a babysitter and for the elderly it can include family members who assist with care who may not be able to attend in office appointments.
While there are many benefits there are also challenges. One of the challenges with telehealth is that the patient must have a reliable internet connection. During the pandemic “poor internet connection and lack of universal access to technology were among the technical barriers” (Ftouni et al, 2022).
I completely agree with you that telehealth has been an incredibly useful resource in healthcare, especially in the current climate. It has allowed providers to treat patients safely while also providing more access to healthcare services (Usoh et al., 2022). In addition to the benefits you mentioned, telehealth can help reduce current healthcare spending in the United States by combating issues such as the misuse of medications, unnecessary emergency department visits, and prolonged hospital stays (Gajarawala & Pelkowski, 2021). As you have pointed out, however, a few potential challenges need to be addressed to ensure a successful telehealth experience. The measures outlined, such as utilizing encrypted forms of communication and follow-up appointments, are great steps in maintaining (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance and providing complete assessments. Another challenge is that the rules and regulations guiding telehealth are different for each state and constantly changing, which could create unclear understandings of the standards and guidelines among healthcare organizations. To prevent any compliance issues, healthcare providers must familiarize themselves with the guidelines of telehealth in their practice states (Gajarawala & Pelkowski, 2021). As technology continues to evolve, these challenges can be addressed, and telehealth will become even more successful in the future.
References
Gajarawala, S. N., & Pelkowski, J. N. (2021). Telehealth benefits and barriers. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners: JNP, 17(2), 218–221. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2020.09.013
You have picked a critical point; I find it insightful and well-explained. Improved efficiency in providing high-quality healthcare is in high demand across all healthcare settings because of the industry’s dynamic nature. Since the initial diagnosis of COVID-19, healthcare technology has advanced quickly, meeting the needs of a healthcare environment that has altered significantly. Since the beginning of the global pandemic, many problems have necessitated action to continue providing safe, high-quality patient care. Adaptations in healthcare technology have been crucial in assisting healthcare facilities in surviving the epidemic. According to Dykes et al. (2017), checklists and electronic health records (EHR) data are valuable tools for promoting the consistent use of innovative healthcare solutions.
As vital as adopting cutting-edge healthcare technology, it is equally crucial to guarantee that personnel is competent in its proper application to allow necessary organizational change.
It is no secret that telehealth is one of my company’s most popular and pervasive new developments in healthcare IT.
Patients who, for various reasons, cannot physically visit their doctors have significantly benefited from this development in healthcare IT. Patients and doctors often choose telemedicine early in the epidemic to avoid potentially contracting COVID-19 when visiting a healthcare facility.
References
Dykes, P. C., Rozenblum, R., Dalal, A., Massaro, A., Chang, F., Clements, M., Collins, S., Bates, D. W. (2017). Prospective evaluation of a
multifaceted intervention to improve outcomes in intensive care: The Promoting Respect and Ongoing Safety Through Patient
Initial post – Challenges and Benefits of Trends in Healthcare Technology
The Role of Remote Patient Monitoring in Modern Healthcare
Trends in healthcare technology have the goal of enhancing patient care, reducing risk and error, improving patient outcomes, and making healthcare more accessible to populations that are difficult to reach. Since the onset of the global pandemic, many tech and healthcare companies have worked at finding solutions to the challenges caused by the pandemic. Some key trends include telemedicine technology, Internet of Things (IoT) in healthcare, and the use of wearable healthcare devices.
Benefits of Remote Monitoring for Healthcare Providers and Patients
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) has many benefits, including improved clinical management and reduced manpower requirements. Not only does remote monitoring allow healthcare providers to receive timely notifications about changes in a patient’s condition, but it also empowers patients to take a more active role in managing their own health. For instance, health technology for chronic disease management, such as wearable medical devices for remote monitoring, helps track vital signs and other health metrics. This enables providers to adjust treatments based on real-time data, leading to more personalized healthcare.
Patients can also benefit from improved outcomes through personalized healthcare enabled by these technologies. With continuous monitoring, healthcare providers can intervene sooner, preventing complications and reducing hospital readmissions, especially for chronic conditions like heart failure and diabetes.
Overcoming Challenges in Data Security and Patient Privacy
Challenges with healthcare data security and cloud computing in healthcare remain significant. As patient data is transmitted from wearable health devices for chronic conditions to healthcare providers, it’s critical that the information remains secure. Data breaches or unauthorized access can lead to serious privacy concerns. Ensuring client-side encryption, multi-factor authentication, and data loss prevention protocols are in place is essential to maintaining the integrity of patient data.
The use of third-party platforms and cloud computing has also created new challenges, particularly in managing large volumes of health data. However, these platforms can improve processing speed and facilitate more efficient data sharing, which is critical for real-time monitoring.
Improvements in home healthcare technology, such as wearable healthcare devices and implantable devices, are transforming the management of chronic diseases. These technologies enable patients to monitor their health from home, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits and improving overall care.
Wearable Devices for Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, and Seizure Monitoring
Wearable healthcare devices, like smartwatches, are being used to monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and even detect seizures. For example, a smartwatch by Omron tracks heart rate, steps, and blood pressure. When abnormal vital signs are detected, an alert is sent to the physician, who can then recommend treatment adjustments. This capability is particularly valuable in managing chronic conditions like hypertension or heart failure monitoring devices.
Another example includes wearable devices designed for epilepsy management. These devices detect seizures and alert caregivers or medical professionals in real-time, helping to reduce risks and improve patient engagement in healthcare technology. Wearable health devices can also help improve the quality of life for patients, providing more control over their condition.
Improving Patient Engagement through Wearable Devices
The use of wearable health devices for chronic conditions has been shown to enhance patient engagement in healthcare technology. With real-time data, patients become more involved in their care, making informed decisions and adhering to treatment regimens. This leads to better overall health outcomes, particularly in the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes or heart failure. Patients are more likely to stick to their care plan when they can see tangible results from their monitoring devices.
Implantable Medical Devices for Continuous Monitoring
Implantable medical devices are increasingly being used for continuous monitoring of chronic conditions, offering a more precise and uninterrupted approach to patient care. These devices provide real-time data that can be transmitted to healthcare providers, leading to quicker responses and improved patient outcomes.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) and Improved Outcomes for Diabetic Patients
One prominent example is Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), a device that is implanted to continuously monitor a diabetic patient’s blood glucose levels. These devices help improve outcomes for diabetic patients by allowing them to take proactive steps in managing their blood sugar levels. Patients no longer have to rely on manual readings, and they can receive alerts when their blood glucose levels are out of range, enabling timely corrections before serious symptoms occur.
Heart Failure Monitoring Devices: Timely Intervention and Better Outcomes
Another example is the HeartLogic device, embedded into a CRT-D cardiac device, which monitors heart failure symptoms. By tracking changes in the body, it helps detect worsening heart failure and triggers early intervention, preventing hospitalizations and improving patient care. Research on heart failure monitoring devices shows that early detection through remote patient monitoring can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes. A recent study found that a heart failure detection algorithm was accurate enough to predict an event with 86.5% sensitivity and 93% specificity (Ezer et al., 2022), showing the potential of implantable medical devices for continuous monitoring in improving patient care.
The Future of Healthcare Technology: Personalized Care and Cost Reduction
The future of healthcare is increasingly focused on personalized healthcare through technology and cost reduction. Telehealth and remote patient monitoring play a crucial role in decentralizing medicine, making healthcare more accessible and affordable.
The Role of IoT and Remote Monitoring in Decentralizing Medicine
With the Internet of Things (IoT) in healthcare, more devices are becoming connected, allowing for continuous data collection and real-time monitoring. This integration of remote monitoring technology reduces the need for patients to visit healthcare facilities and allows for a more personalized and efficient care model. For underserved populations, home healthcare technology can bridge gaps in access to care, lowering costs and improving health outcomes.
Payment Models and Reimbursement for Remote Monitoring Services
As the use of remote patient monitoring grows, new payment models are emerging. In 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed new payment codes for remote therapeutic monitoring, helping to make remote healthcare services more financially viable for healthcare providers. This will likely increase the adoption of telemedicine technology and wearable healthcare devices in the future, as healthcare systems strive to provide personalized care while keeping costs down.By embracing health technology for chronic disease management, telemedicine, and wearable health devices, healthcare can become more efficient, affordable, and personalized. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of remote monitoring, implantable devices, and real-time data collection will lead to improved patient outcomes and greater patient satisfaction. The future of healthcare is undoubtedly shaped by these innovations, which are transforming how we manage health, improve care, and enhance patient engagement.
Harvey, M., & Seiler, A. (2022). Challenges in managing a Remote Monitoring Device Clinic. Heart Rhythm O2, 3(1), 3–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hroo.2021.12.002
McGonigle, D., & Mastrian, K. G. (2022). Nursing Informatics and the foundation of knowledge (5th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Olsen, L. S., Nielsen, J. M., Simonÿ, C., Kjær, T. W., & Beck, M. (2021). Wearables in real life: A qualitative study of experiences of people with epilepsy who use home seizure monitoring devices. Epilepsy & Behavior, 125, 108398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108398Links to an external site.
Hello Colleen, thanks for posting! As you note, the growing trend of telehealth in general but also the remote patient monitoring and other wearable devices is really taking off! The recent pandemic certainly helped springboard this trend as technology had been on the verge but the push to utilize beyond current processes came with COVID 19 (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2022). Some of the other really beneficial outcomes of some of these devices is that it has resulted in an increased engagement and interest in maintaining health and wellness by the patients (Graham & Jones, 2020). Which, in turn has helped reduced hospital time.
References
Graham, C. M., & Jones, N. (2020). Impact of IOT on Geriatric Telehealth. Working with Older People, 24(3), 231–243. https://doi.org/10.1108/wwop-04-2020-0012
McGonigle, D., & Mastrian, K. G. (2022). 18/ Introduction. In Nursing Informatics and the foundation of knowledge (pp. 403–403). essay, Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Post a brief description of general healthcare technology trends, particularly related to data/information you have observed in use in your healthcare organization or nursing practice.
The Role of Electronic Health Records in Nursing Practice
One of the most beneficial healthcare technology trends at my organization is the use of electronic health records (EHR). EHRs have been continuously improved to fit the various needs of our healthcare system, supporting the growing changes in healthcare delivery. An electronic health record is a real-time, digital chart containing comprehensive patient information that healthcare professionals can easily access and update. This system allows patients to track their health status, giving them greater control over their care. EHRs include essential data such as patient demographics, diagnostic test results, medical history, allergies, medications, and procedures the patient has undergone (Tayefi et al., 2021).
At our facility, authorized personnel can access and share patient information across various departments. For instance, when a patient is first admitted, their medical history is entered into the system, and this data is updated as they continue to receive care. During subsequent visits, healthcare providers can retrieve this information easily and update it based on the patient’s current complaints and treatment plan (Dinh-Le et al., 2019).
Challenges and Risks Associated with Electronic Health Records
While electronic health records (EHR) have revolutionized patient care, my organization has not yet fully capitalized on their potential. For example, different departments use different EHR systems, which can hinder the sharing of patient data between healthcare professionals. Lab technicians use a specific system, while the emergency department relies on the MediTech platform. This creates barriers to data sharing, even though most nurses have access to multiple systems. Ideally, a unified system would streamline the process and improve efficiency in patient care (Dinh-Le et al., 2019).
Data Safety and Cybersecurity Risks in Healthcare Technology
One of the major data safety concerns with electronic health records is the risk of cyberattacks. Hospitals are frequent targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit patient-protected health information. While we have been fortunate to avoid significant breaches, there was an instance where our system was almost held hostage by cybercriminals, though they did not manage to access protected health data. The attack caused major disruptions, and we had to revert to manual paperwork during system downtimes (Dinh-Le et al., 2019).
Despite these risks, electronic health records provide significant benefits to patients and healthcare providers. For example, telemedicine technology enabled by EHRs allows healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients, such as those with chronic conditions like diabetes. By monitoring patient metrics like blood sugar levels or insulin adherence, nurses and physicians can intervene early and provide timely care. The integration of telemedicine with EHRs has also proven invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic by enabling remote patient engagement and reducing the strain on emergency departments (Shahnaz et al., 2019).
Improving Patient Care Outcomes with EHRs
The integration of electronic health records has transformed patient care in our hospital. Before implementing EHRs, poor communication and a lack of accessible patient information often led to delays and errors in care, contributing to potentially harmful outcomes. EHRs have significantly reduced these issues by enabling easy sharing of patient data, facilitating more personalized healthcare and preventive care.
For example, patient engagement has been greatly enhanced through systems like MYChart, which allows patients to track their own health progress. By logging in to the system, they can monitor everything from lab results to medication adherence. This transparency helps empower patients to take charge of their health. However, it’s crucial that healthcare professionals prioritize data privacy and confidentiality when using EHRs, as failing to protect patient information can undermine trust and have serious consequences for the institution (Shahnaz et al., 2019).
The Future of Healthcare Technology and Nursing Practice
In nursing practice, healthcare technology trends like telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and EHR integration are reshaping how we deliver care. Telemedicine in particular has shown promise in improving access to healthcare services, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. With remote patient monitoring and wearable medical devices becoming more integrated into chronic disease management, nurses can now provide continuous care without patients needing to visit the hospital in person. These technologies help reduce the strain on healthcare facilities, lower costs, and improve patient satisfaction.
The future of healthcare technology in nursing looks promising, especially as technologies such as cloud computing in healthcare and the Internet of Things (IoT) in healthcare continue to evolve for online nursing papers. These innovations will allow nurses to provide more personalized care, streamline administrative processes, and enhance patient safety.
References
Dinh-Le, C., Chuang, R., Chokshi, S., & Mann, D. (2019). Wearable health technology and electronic health record integration: scoping review and future directions. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 7(9), e12861. https://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/9/e12861/Links to an external site.
Your post is very thorough and descriptive. I really enjoyed reading it as it covers all of the topics asked in discussion post which includes benefits and potential risks of electronic health records. The way healthcare professionals interact, record, and examine patient data has been significantly altered by electronic health records (EHRs). Medical mistakes have been reduced thanks to EHRs, which have also improved patient outcomes by enabling professional teams to view the same data. The capacity of EHRs to use artificial intelligence (AI) to absorb data and infer information useful for patient diagnosis is what makes them so exciting. Utilizing this data and conducting research can help shape how we will deliver care in the future (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2022).
EHRs include significant data on things like age, way of life, comorbidities, medicines, and family history. These data may be analyzed by artificial intelligence to assist healthcare professionals in making quick choices and enhancing patient outcomes (Jiang, 2017). A new age in healthcare is being established by AI’s capacity to use algorithms to monitor, diagnose, and treat patients (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2022).
Unfortunately, data security is not perfect. Healthcare data breaches are on the increase and more likely to occur than in other sectors, such as banking (HIPAA Journal, 2022). The finding by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) that human error accounts for more than half of all security breaches is more intriguing (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2022). This is a result of staff members’ negligence, carelessness, and lack of software experience (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2022).
General healthcare technology trends observed in use in Healthcare organization
In the past decade or so, healthcare and technology upcoming technology have merged. More recently, the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic pushed technology companies to venture into the healthcare space and healthcare companies into the tech space (Marr, 2022). Various trends have emerged in healthcare technology, including the Internet of Medical Things (IOMT), Telehealth, cloud computing, and machine learning, among others.
My organization uses a cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) system known as CERNER for our in-patients. This is where the patient’s medical information is stored and can be accessed by the facility staff while providing care.
Our out-patients also can sign up for telemedicine services, which is where they can access Healthcare without physically coming into the facility.
Potential challenges or risks associated with the trends described
With the healthcare industry still playing catch-up when it comes to technology integration (Kruse et al., 2017), breach of patient data becomes a potential challenge with the use of EHR systems. There is always the risk that any unscrupulous persons can get into the system and access private patient information.
When we look at the telemedicine aspect as another side to it, there is the risk of losing pertinent patient information stemming from miscommunication. For instance, if a patient is relaying information to their Healthcare provider and one party loses internet or cellular connection, valuable information the patient thinks they have conveyed may not be received by the provider. This could potentially lead to misdiagnosis or mismanagement of the condition.
Potential benefits and risks associated with data safety
Some telemedicine services provide basic health care and information without requiring any identifying data from the client. This becomes a potential benefit as data safety concerns are eliminated from the get-go. Since telemedicine is primarily an online service, a potential risk is the denial of service (such as no internet or cellular service) occurring to either of the parties involved, interrupting communication between the patient and their provider. A potential benefit of the EHR system is the convenience of multiple healthcare providers accessing patient records simultaneously without a physical document being carted around, decreasing the risk of the wrong persons seeing confidential patient data. On the other hand, a potential risk is hackers gaining access to multiple patients’ sensitive data, compromising their security and privacy.
Which Healthcare technology trends are most promising
Wearable technology and Health trackers can be promising for impacting nursing practice because they are portable, not cumbersome, and more convenient for use by both patients and their healthcare providers. Wearable technology is also fast catching on as a fashion statement, and nursing practice can piggyback off that.
Whether this promise will contribute to improvements in patient care outcomes
Wearable tech and health trackers will contribute significantly to improvements in patient care outcomes because they provide an avenue for real-time monitoring of patients – even when they are outside the health care organization. Healthcare providers can remotely provide information about lifestyle or treatment modification. This, in turn, means that patients who will not – or cannot – present to the health facility still get taken care of, leading to the eventual improvement of overall population health.
References
Kruse, C. S., Frederick, B., Jacobson, T., & Monticone, D. K. (2017). Cybersecurity in healthcare: A systematic review of modern threats and trends.
Technology and Health Care, 25(1), 1-10
Marr, B. (2022). The Five Biggest Healthcare Tech Trends In 2022. Retrieved from
Skiba, D. (2017). Evaluation Tools to Appraise Social Media and Mobile Applications. Informatics, 4(3), 32.
Yeganeh, H. (2019). An analysis of emerging trends and transformations in global healthcare. International Journal of Health Governance, 24(2), 169-180.
Thumbs up for the work you did on this post. You provided great insight into the advantages and challenges we face daily in nursing using technology. As I was reading through the challenges you presented, I wanted to expand on the breach in security we face as most of our patient’s information is being moved to electronic medical records. We easily remember not to share information by word of mouth or involve someone outside of the treatment team in a patient’s confidential medical information. Still, I often forget to “badge out” of my workstation or close out a patient’s chart when I’m busy or on the move. I can easily forget that this small misstep can compromise the confidentiality of the patient by exposing their confidential medical information and leaving it unprotected. Safe technological integration is important to maintaining patient confidentiality and is a beneficial strategy to promote patient safety (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2018).
The evolution and integration of technology into health care are exciting and can lead to better patient outcomes as patients learn to take better accountability for their health. Their treatments have become more focused on modulating their behaviours to improve their health. In a study by Dykes, et al. (2017), they concluded that “patient-centred care” combined with online technology and involving the patients in the discussion regarding their care led to decreased rates of adverse events and increased rates of patient satisfaction (pg. e812).
References
Dykes, P.C., Rozenblum, R., Dalal, A., Massaro, A., Chang, F., Clements, M., Collins, S., …Bates, D.W. (2017). Prospective evaluation of a multifaceted intervention to improve outcomes in intensive care: The promoting respect and ongoing safety through patient engagement communication and technology study. Critical Care Medicine, 45(8), e806-e813. Doi: 10.1097/CCM.0000000000002449
McGonigle, D., & Mastrian, K. G. (2017). Nursing informatics and the foundation of knowledge (4th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Telemedicine in Nursing Practice: Transforming Patient Care
Telemedicine is changing how doctors and patients connect. Telehealth means getting medical care and information over long distances using technology like video calls, the internet, and wireless communication (HealthIt.gov, 2019). At my workplace, a state prison, we use telemedicine more now because it’s cheaper than taking inmates to specialists in person. While telehealth was originally meant for people in remote areas and those who have a hard time accessing healthcare, the COVID-19 crisis made it even more popular as in-person visits became difficult (Jin et al., 2020). Nowadays, many people find telehealth a practical and affordable way to get medical care (Gajarawala & Pelowski, 2020).
Benefits of Telemedicine for Patients and Nurses
Telemedicine offers various benefits, such as reducing the strain on healthcare systems and making care more accessible. For nurses, telehealth provides a way to stay connected with patients remotely, offering continuous care without the need for physical visits. For patients, especially those with chronic conditions, remote patient monitoring through telemedicine makes it easier to track their health and stay in touch with healthcare providers.
How Telehealth Enhances Patient Access to Care
Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to reach patients in rural and underserved areas. People in remote locations, where healthcare providers are scarce, can now access necessary care, thanks to online nursing papers and platforms that connect them with specialists. This is especially important for individuals who find it hard to travel or access clinics.
Challenges of Implementing Telemedicine in Nursing
Despite the benefits, telemedicine also faces challenges, such as technological barriers, privacy concerns, and ensuring that the quality of care doesn’t suffer. Some older adults struggle to use new technology, making telehealth adoption difficult for them. Also, the lack of access to internet or devices can exclude certain populations from benefiting from telehealth.
Benefits of Telemedicine in Nursing
Telemedicine is increasingly being recognized for its advantages in nursing practice, especially in managing chronic diseases and improving patient outcomes.
Cost Savings and Healthcare Access
Telemedicine can reduce healthcare costs by minimizing the need for in-person visits, which are often more expensive. By adopting telehealth for chronic disease management and offering remote consultations, hospitals and clinics can provide care to more patients without increasing overhead costs.
Telemedicine and Chronic Disease Management
For patients with chronic diseases, telemedicine offers a way to manage their health more effectively. Remote monitoring allows healthcare professionals to track vital signs, manage medications, and intervene early when necessary.
Improving Patient Engagement through Telehealth
Telemedicine also plays a crucial role in improving patient engagement. With telehealth, patients can take a more active role in managing their health by regularly communicating with their healthcare providers. The convenience and ease of remote consultations increase patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans.
Legal and Privacy Considerations in Telehealth
Telehealth brings forward significant privacy and legal concerns that need to be addressed to ensure safe and compliant practices in nursing.
HIPAA Compliance and Data Security in Telemedicine
One of the most pressing concerns with telemedicine is HIPAA compliance in telemedicine. Healthcare providers must ensure that patient data is kept secure during online consultations. Telehealth platforms must meet strict security requirements to protect against data breaches and unauthorized access.
Telemedicine and Patient Privacy Concerns
Patient privacy is a critical issue in telemedicine. The use of online platforms for remote consultations raises concerns about how patient information is stored and transmitted. It’s essential to choose telemedicine platforms that are designed with security features to prevent data leaks.
Legal Risks and Telemedicine Licensure Issues
Telemedicine’s legal landscape can be complex. Nurses and other healthcare providers must be aware of licensure requirements in different states, especially if they provide services across state lines. Telemedicine licensure issues can pose significant challenges if not handled properly.
Overcoming Barriers to Telehealth Adoption
Despite the benefits, there are barriers to widespread adoption of telehealth, particularly among older adults and underserved populations.
Technology Barriers in Telemedicine
Telemedicine adoption can be hindered by technological barriers, such as limited access to the internet, lack of digital literacy, and inadequate devices. It’s crucial to ensure that patients and healthcare providers have access to the necessary tools to make telemedicine effective.
Access to Devices and Internet for Telemedicine
For telehealth to be truly effective, patients need access to devices like smartphones, tablets, or computers, as well as reliable internet connections. This is a major hurdle in some rural and low-income areas where technology infrastructure is lacking.
Addressing Telehealth Challenges for Older Adults
The elderly population may face unique challenges when adopting telehealth. Older adults may struggle with new technology or have limited access to digital tools. Tailored solutions, such as simplified platforms and community-based training, can help improve their experience with telemedicine.
The Future of Telemedicine in Nursing
Telemedicine continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for nurses to enhance patient care, particularly in managing long-term health issues and improving healthcare outcomes.
The Role of Nurses in Telemedicine Expansion
Nurses play a key role in the success of telemedicine. They help bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers by coordinating care, monitoring patient health, and offering support through telemedicine platforms. Their role in telemedicine is expected to grow as more healthcare systems adopt these technologies.
Innovations in Remote Monitoring and Telehealth
Telemedicine is becoming more sophisticated with advancements in remote patient monitoring, which allows for continuous tracking of patients’ health outside of a clinical setting. Innovations in wearables and other telehealth technology are improving the ability to monitor chronic conditions and reduce hospital readmissions.
The Impact of Telemedicine on Healthcare Costs and Outcomes
As telemedicine technology continues to grow, it has the potential to reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes. By using telemedicine for rural populations, remote patient monitoring, and chronic disease management, healthcare systems can reduce hospital admissions and emergency room visits, ultimately lowering costs and improving patient care.
Telemedicine is revolutionizing nursing practice, providing opportunities for cost savings, enhanced patient access, and improved chronic disease management. However, it is important to address barriers to adoption, ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations, and overcome privacy concerns to fully leverage the potential of telehealth in nursing.
In the 21st century, many technological advancements are changing the way we provide healthcare. These changes include electronic health records (EHRs), artificial intelligence (AI), and telemedicine technologies like biosensors.
