When the American Nurses Association (ANA) was founded in 1896, aspirin was still one year away from being synthesized, and chloroform was believed to be an appropriate asthma treatment. Healthcare has come a long way since then, and technology in nursing has been rapidly evolving. Today, nurses follow evidence-based practices and apply modern technology to enhance patient care, ensure continuity of care, and improve patient outcomes.

At the University of St. Thomas’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, our nursing instructors prepare our students to competently navigate the high-tech nursing world and tackle modern healthcare challenges. From informatics and technology in nursing to cultivating a bedside manner, you can learn everything you need to be a successful nurse at UST.

Understanding Informatics and Technology in Nursing

Healthcare technology has evolved considerably and continues to do so. One area of tech to consider is nursing informatics. Informatics blends computer science, information science, and nursing science. It allows nurses to compile electronically stored patient data in a way that is compliant with patient privacy regulations. Through technologies such as electronic health records (EHRs), nurse informaticists and other RNs can coordinate patient care, reduce the risk of medical errors, inform nursing decision-making, and even advance nursing research.

The Role of Nursing and Technology in Modern Healthcare

Technology is used in virtually every aspect of modern nursing. Technology greatly facilitates nursing care, from the pulse oximeter used to check patients’ blood oxygen levels to electronic records that track every detail of patient care. Some examples of the roles of technology in nursing include:

• Patient monitoring: Monitors can automatically track patient information, such as respiratory rates and oxygen levels. Nurses can receive an alert when a patient’s status needs attention, which improves response time.
• Medication administration: IV pumps can be adjusted to deliver precise dosages of medications, reducing the risk of medication errors.
• Electronic health records (EHRs): EHRs allow multiple providers across a health system to access the same patient’s health information.
• Communication: Not all nursing technologies directly involve patient care; some facilitate coordination among a nursing team. With wearable communication devices, nurses can seamlessly coordinate nursing tasks no matter where individual team members are.

Benefits of Technology in Nursing

Informatics and technology in nursing benefit patients and healthcare professionals in many ways. One example is how telehealth nursing reduces barriers to care, improving health equity for underserved populations. Individuals in remote regions and otherwise living in healthcare deserts can use telehealth nursing to access the care they need, potentially improving health outcomes. The same applies to older adults, immunocompromised patients, and others who may have difficulties leaving home for medical appointments.

Other benefits of technology in healthcare include:

• Stronger patient engagement: Patient engagement in the healthcare process is vital because active participants in their care are more likely to understand their condition and treatment options, make informed decisions, and adhere to treatment instructions. Technology in nursing can enhance patient engagement. For example, patient portals allow patients access to their own medical records and facilitate communication with providers.
• Reduced risk of medical errors: Some healthcare technologies, such as EHRs, can reduce the risk of medical mistakes. EHRs allow nurses to document every detail of patient care precisely. In addition, prescriptions for patients being discharged can be sent electronically to pharmacies. This eliminates the potential for a pharmacist to misread illegible handwriting and dispense the wrong medication or dosage.
• Improved workload balance: Nurses spend substantial time on routine tasks. Some of those tasks can be automated or at least streamlined through technology. This can allow nurses to focus on more critical aspects of patient care and may reduce the risk of professional burnout.
• Better patient safety: Some nursing technologies enhance patient safety. For example, patients considered a fall risk can have a device on their bed that transmits an alert to the nurse when it senses the patient has gotten out of bed.

Top Technologies Used in Nursing Today

If you become a nurse, you will likely encounter many healthcare technologies. Some of the top technologies used in nursing today include:

• Automated IV pumps: These can precisely control the medication dosages administered to patients intravenously. Nurses can also use automated IV pumps to deliver nutrition to patients who cannot eat.
• Portable monitors: With portable monitors, nurses can easily check each patient’s status anytime.
• Electronic health records: EHRs allow for continuity of care. For example, providers from different facilities can see the patient’s medications and avoid administering a new medication that may interact with the existing ones. In addition, nurses on other shifts can check a patient’s EHR to see when their medications were last administered and when the next dosage should be.
• Telehealth platforms: Nurses often use telecommunications technology to perform remote assessments, check on patients’ progress, and deliver patient education.

Revolutionizing Patient Care With Technology

Technology in nursing will continue to revolutionize patient care in the future, making it more streamlined and impactful. One example of emerging technologies is robotics. Although robotics itself is not necessarily new, the ways it can impact nursing care are. For example, robots could transport medications, medical devices, and similar supplies around the hospital, eliminating this mundane task from a nurse’s to-do list.

A robotic device can also quickly disinfect a patient’s room or an operating suite. Some robotic devices can be used for physical therapy or even to provide companionship to lonely patients and those with mental health disorders.

Other emerging technologies seek to improve the patient experience. One such technology provides for autonomous blood draws using a combination of robotics, imaging technology, and artificial intelligence. Not only can the technology reduce pain and improve patients’ experiences, but it can also alleviate the pressure of staffing shortages.

How Nurses Can Keep Up With Evolving Technology

Nurses need to stay on top of emerging healthcare technologies to provide the best possible care to their patients and potentially enhance their career trajectory. One of the most effective ways to do this is to commit to ongoing professional development, such as by:

• Reading nursing journals, which may cover emerging healthcare technologies
• Participating in any available training programs offered by healthcare employers
• Completing continuing education units (CEUs) that focus on nursing technologies
• Earning nursing certifications relevant to healthcare technology, such as the Informatics Nursing Certification (NI-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

Pursue a High-Tech Future in Nursing at UST

At UST, our nursing instructors prepare students to apply critical thinking, communication, and ethical leadership skills as they navigate the high-tech world of nursing. With excellent student support resources and personalized attention, our nursing students have everything needed to excel in healthcare settings.

UST’s ABSN program can allow you to graduate in as few as 12 months after completing any needed prerequisites. Contact an admissions advisor today to learn if you could be eligible to apply.