Modern information technology advancements has greatly impacted every field of human life and nursing is no exception. Technological advancements made in 21st century has changed the face of nursing. Today, nurses are challenged to learn the skills required to use emerging technologies and integrate them into their professional practice. Most of the new technologies require education, training and a period of adoption for nurses to fully embrace them.
Electronic infusion device (EID) is an automated system of introducing a fluid other then blood into a vein. More than a decade ago, the introduction of IV (intravenous) smart pumps with drug libraries and error reduction system is happened to be a revolutionary advancement in the field of nursing. The innovation of IV electronic monitors has brought much ease to the job of nursing. With the advancement of IV pump infusion and electronic monitoring, nurses are freed up to initiate an IV and allow a machine to monitor and regulate the process.
Another fascinating technology advancement is invention of sphygmomanometer. It is a device that measures blood pressure. Hence, the nurses no longer have to measure the blood pressure and heart rate manually. Digital sphygmomanometers are automated, providing blood pressure reading without needing someone to operate the cuff or listen to the blood flow sounds. This technological development has made the biggest daily difference in a nurse’s life.
CPR was the only technique used by the nurses to revive someone’s heart until automated external defibrillators are invented. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are used to revive someone from sudden cardiac arrest. The fantastic technology of portable defibrillator saves lives. The few minutes after heart failure are critical, and the portable defibrillator allows for immediate resuscitative action.
The IT advancements in communication sector has also greatly benefited the field of nursing. local wireless telephone networks and cell phones has significantly reduced the communication delays in the hospital and also outside. Also, nurses use their cell phones to access information on a plenty of apps available for nursing. if a nurse is engaged in active patient care or associated tasks, hands free communication devices will be of great help. Nurses use tablets to access information, and portable computers are at the bedside.The smart drug delivery is a breakthrough and we are seeing benefits from technology in other areas of medication management. E-Health offers opportunities to transform every step of the patient’s medicines management journey. High-tech systems of medication retrieval and delivery, such as bar coding and verification, have greatly reduced the potential for dangerous error.
