Nursing has always been challenging and demanding, requiring individuals to be both physically and mentally strong. Fortunately, with major advancements made in technology, the workload of nursing professionals has been significantly reduced, easing burdens and making patient care more efficient and more effective than ever before. Let’s take a closer look…
Recently, telehealth and other innovative technologies have emerged as lifesavers for real life savers: nurses. These innovations have delivered a variety of improvements to nurses and those within the healthcare sector and include:
- Enhanced work-life balance
- Strengthened diagnostic skills
- Assistance for healthcare workers to advance their careers
How else have these technologies revolutionized the healthcare industry within these specific areas?
Work-Life Balance
One of the biggest challenges that nursing professionals face is achieving a work-life balance. With long shifts, rotating schedules, and extensive patient care responsibilities, it can be difficult for nurses to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. That being said, modern technology has brought the world telehealth and remote patient monitoring, for instance, which has enabled nurses to work from home or distant locations. This results in less time spent on commuting, increased job flexibility, and more time for personal life and hobbies.
Enhancing Patient Care
Electronic health records (EHRs) have revolutionized medical documentation, making it more efficient and manageable. Nurses can easily access patient information from virtually anywhere, reducing the risk of errors and enabling more informed care.
Similarly, telehealth has allowed for the remote monitoring of patients, tracking of vital signs, and providing real-time alerts. This proactive approach has led to a reduction in hospital readmissions, ultimately improving long-term health outcomes for patients. Telehealth has also expanded healthcare access, particularly benefiting remote and underserved areas around the world. As technology advances, nurses can expect further innovations that enhance their ability to deliver exceptional patient care.
Advancing Diagnostics
Diagnostic technologies, such as bedside platforms, have revolutionized the nursing profession. These devices can analyze blood samples, examine bacterial cultures, and run tests for infectious organisms. These diagnostic technologies have allowed for rapid analysis of tests and results, thus expediting treatment and enhancing patient health outcomes.
Advancing Careers
Technology has ushered in a new era of career opportunities for nurses. The aforementioned telehealth and remote patient monitoring, powered by advanced technology, has created many remote employment opportunities for nurses. This shift toward remote healthcare delivery has broadened the scope of the entire nursing practice while introducing greater flexibility into their careers.
Career alert: nurses can harness technology to help propel their professional growth. They can pursue additional certifications in specialized fields or take advantage of various continuing education courses made easily accessible through digital platforms. These educational opportunities enhance their skills and knowledge and serve as stepping stones for career advancement and the pursuit of more rewarding job opportunities. Technology has lightened the workload and opened doors for nurses to elevate their careers in a rapidly-evolving healthcare landscape.
By adopting and integrating modernized technologies, particularly during the era of COVID-19, healthcare organizations can better equip their nursing staff with far greater efficiency, thus delivering high-quality patient health outcomes while improving job satisfaction.
Wrap-Up
As patients, healthcare professionals, and community members, we must all recognize the role technology plays in making nursing a more efficient and fulfilling profession. Only through embracing technology can the healthcare industry attain the quality care and benefits that nurses and patients of all shapes and sizes deserve.
Nursing is a dynamic field full of opportunities beyond traditional bedside care. With the right education and training, you too can enjoy a rewarding career that blends your passion for healthcare with your interest in business, technology, or law. At IHG, we help students plan their careers beyond nursing school and offer programs to help them achieve their career goals. Contact us today to learn more!
