New technology in nursing allows for more accurate patient care
The challenging career of nursing has changed quite a bit since the pandemic, and the healthcare industry is recognizing the contributions these professionals make to the field. The future of nursing looks very promising for someone who wants to get into this field as a student or as a second career. Just watching the news every day shows that the United States is suffering a nursing shortage, and now is the time to pursue this career. Highly educated nurses are valued in healthcare, and with experience and knowledge, an individual can move up in their career to increased responsibility and income.
Advances in technology have allowed nurses to provide a more precise and higher standard of patient care than ever before. Data-driven analytics, robotics, telemedicine, and other advancements empower today’s nurses to make autonomous decisions on treatment plans and predict patient outcomes. Moving forward, innovations in healthcare will let nurses anticipate and respond to patients’ needs faster and more accurately. The introduction of wearable devices that track patients’ vital signs can help nurses keep track of the progress their patients are making after they have been discharged.
New technologies in the field of nursing include telemedicine, remote monitoring, machine learning, robotics, wearable devices, virtual reality simulation, augmented reality, digital health analytics, and 3D printing. So, if you are asking, “should I become a nurse, accredited schools such as Saint Joseph’s College offer degrees in nursing with flexible studying hours and an exciting curriculum.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine really picked up steam during the pandemic when extra health precautions required nurses to follow up with patients and caregivers via video chat or instant messaging. The pandemic may have propelled this technology forward, but it has now become mainstream in healthcare, and nurses can reach out to those who live in remote places and give them the same level of care as those who are closer. This technology helps nurses and patients form a more personalized experience and closer bond than making a phone call or sending a letter.
Remote health monitoring
With remote health monitoring, nurses can track a patient’s condition in real time and monitor any changes in vital signs that may be of concern. Part of the challenge with patient care is what happens once the patient leaves the facility, but with remote monitoring, it is easier for the healthcare team to track whether the treatment plan is having the desired effect on the patient’s health. In some cases, real-time monitoring can save a patient’s life if they have been incapacitated. This type of monitoring can also save the system money by reducing costs associated with personal visits.
Machine learning
Machine learning uses algorithms to make predictions on health risks using existing data. This type of technology will revolutionize the way nurses perform their jobs because they will be better able to identify what areas of risk apply to certain patients and work with them to avoid those health issues. Machine learning can also help nurses create more personalized treatment plans that cater to the specific needs of the individual resulting in better outcomes.
Robotics
Robotics is an exciting area of technology used to help nurses work more efficiently and reduce physical strains that might otherwise occur in the workplace. Robotics can help nurses with routine tasks like collecting specimens, managing inventory, and moving patients from one area to another. Robotics can also help healthcare professionals produce faster, more accurate results and track patient data.
Monitoring devices
Monitoring devices have changed the face of nursing in a positive way by tracking patients’ vital signs in real time. Metrics such as heart rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, and glucose are tracked, and any deviation in numbers is flagged. The constant monitoring of vitals allows the healthcare team to get a better idea of how the patient is responding to treatment, and adjustments to medication can be made immediately if needed. This means that more medical issues will be flagged before they become serious problems for the patient.
Virtual reality (VR) simulations
VR simulations are very helpful in teaching nurses what to expect in a busy healthcare environment. The simulation can create situations where an emergency arises, and the nurse must use theory and experience to solve the problem. VR can supplant mannequins or other devices used in training and be much more realistic. When a nurse is preparing for clinical placements in a certain area, VR can provide a realistic experience and give them an idea of what to expect.
Digital health tools
Digital health tools such as tablets and cell phone apps make it easier for nurses to access the health information needed without searching through a large file or reading incomprehensible notes. These tools can also be used to connect to other healthcare providers who may have additional information about the patient. They can be connected to monitoring devices and give nurses real-time details on vitals and health records. With advanced digital tools, red flags in treatment plans, such as medication conflicts or allergies, are immediately brought to the nurse’s attention.
3D printing
3D printing is an exciting technology starting to make headway in nursing. With 3D printing, nurses may be able to create specialized devices and tools at a fraction of the cost for their patients. Implants, devices, prosthetics, and equipment are all examples of what is possible with 3D printing.
The future of nursing looks exciting and ripe with opportunities, especially for those who embrace new technology. With the innovations available in the industry and the proliferation of accredited online schools, those individuals who want to further their careers and attain excellence in patient care can reach their goals in nursing.
