It is an exciting time to join the nursing field. Not only are nurses getting lucrative opportunities, but they also have access to advanced technologies. These technologies assist nurses to improve patient care.
If you are compassionate and want to help your community stay healthy, then becoming a nurse could be the ideal career choice for you. When you study to become a nurse, you learn how to use these technologies so that your patients receive better care. At the same time, it is also important to note that nurses with the right education, optimal patient care skills, and ability to use modern-nursing technologies are often the highest paid. To find out more about the highest-paid nurses’ roles, read Carson-Newman University’s blog, linked to here.
The first step to learning how to use nursing technology and gain the right skills, expertise and certifications is getting the right education. Data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree get about $77,000 on average each year. On the other hand, nurse practitioners with a master’s degree and specialization as advanced practice nurse practitioners earn around $123,000 on average annually. So, if you want to earn a high salary and be able to use nursing technologies to ensure optimal patient care, find the right master’s program.
A lot has been written and spoken about the shortage of qualified nurses across the US. As a result, the demand for highly skilled and knowledgeable nurses is high. To ensure that you have job stability, high earning potential and knowledge of modern technologies used in nursing care, focus on pursuing an advanced nursing degree.
Carson-Newman University offers online Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner and online Post-Master’s Certification – Family Nurse Practitioner programs. In just 32 months, with the help of online classes, on-campus residency and local clinical placements, you can have a master’s degree and be specialized in family nursing.
New technologies in nursing
Now that you know the role of education in helping you learn the use of new technologies in nursing, it is time to take a closer look at some of these technologies.
Electronic health records (EHRs)
The transition from paper-based medical records to electronic health records (EHRs) has been a game changer for nursing professionals.
EHRs allow nurses to access comprehensive patient information instantly. This results in efficient and accurate care. No longer do nurses have to flip through physical files – they can now retrieve medical histories, medication lists, lab results and care plans at the click of a button.
This streamlined approach saves time and reduces errors. Above all, it ensures smooth and hassle-free communication between nurses and other healthcare providers. As a result, it improves coordination of care.
Wearable devices
Wearable devices, such as smartwatches, engage patients, and ensure prompt bedside and remote care.
These devices use Wi-Fi connectivity to track and transmit the health details of patients. Blood glucose level, body position, physical activities and blood pressure can be tracked and transmitted with relative ease. As a result, nurses can keep an eye on patients while they are at home or in the hospital.
This method of tracking the patient’s health not only improves care but also saves time, reduces the chances of adverse effects, and prevents medical errors. When nurses do not have to constantly monitor and track patients’ vital signs, they get more time to provide superior patient care.
Smart beds
Smart beds are revolutionizing patient care. These beds have advanced sensor technologies that not only monitor and adjust the patient’s position without human intervention, but also redistribute pressure to prevent pressure ulcers and boost patient comfort.
As mentioned, these beds are equipped with sensors that detect changes in the patient’s movement. They send an alert to the nurse’s station. This allows nurses to respond quickly to patients who are at risk of falling.
Furthermore, these beds can even integrate with EHRs. Using the data in the records, the beds track vital signs. If there is a change, they send an alert. This ensures that nurses provide immediate intervention, thereby improving patient safety.
Portable monitors
Portable monitoring devices have changed the way that nurses monitor and track patients’ vital signs. These compact and wireless devices allow nurses to monitor patients’ blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation and other parameters continuously. As they are portable and compact, the monitors can also be used during ambulation or transportation.
These monitors provide real-time data. As a result, it lets nurses detect changes in a patient’s condition right away. This technology not only enhances patient safety, but also makes sure that deterioration in patients’ health does not go unnoticed.
When nurses are busy, they may not have the time for manual measurements. With portable monitors, there is no need to measure anything manually. Everything happens automatically, and this allows patients to receive timely attention when the need arises.
Automated IV pumps
Automated intravenous (IV) pumps have replaced traditional manual infusion methods. This significantly improves the administration of medication. It ensures that patients get medications precisely and safely.
These pumps are equipped with sophisticated features that allow nurses to program and control the infusion rate accurately. There are no concerns about patients being overdosed.
The pumps can also incorporate drug libraries and safety checks to prevent medication errors, such as incorrect dosages or incompatible drug combinations. This technology reduces the potential for human error and enhances medication safety. This improves patient outcomes.
Telehealth
Telehealth is a lifeline for patients who live in remote locations or have mobility issues. APRN nurses can use telehealth to monitor patients and provide consultations remotely. They can also deliver care using online platforms.
With the help of this technology, nurses can conduct video consultations, assess vital signs and offer guidance on managing chronic conditions. As a result, there is no need for in-person visits.
Telehealth has played a major role in improving access to healthcare in underserved and rural areas. It reduces the strain on hospital resources and decreases the overall cost of healthcare.
Conclusion
These are just a few technologies that nurses can use to improve patient care. Many more technologies, such as artificial intelligence for clinical diagnosis and treatment plans, are gradually making their way into the world of nursing. The purpose of these technologies is to improve the care that patients receive. In doing so, they also help nurses to provide patient-centered care and boost patient safety.