Embracing Technology in Nursing

Happy June all!

Over the last few weeks, I have noticed an increase in questions and curiosity around the use of technology in nursing and healthcare. 

Twenty years ago, we were largely on paper and technology was perceived to some extent as a foreign entity that was not necessarily "part" of nursing. We had operated on paper to document, to manage medications, to check orders and more. 

However, today in 2024, the vast majority of health centers, systems, practices, and organizations are using digital tools for patient record management, medication management, labs, radiology and more. 

One can no longer separate nursing and healthcare from the dependency on technology. 

However, I would like to have you reflect on the stethoscope for a moment. Would you consider that to be a technology? 

The stethoscope was invented to standardize the assessment of patient heart, lung and bowel sounds across healthcare professionals. Prior to its invention, one relied on one's own auditory abilities which is 1) awkward and uncomfortable for the patient and healthcare professional and 2) highly variable in accuracy. 

Thus, reflecting on the stethoscope, and the integration of that into one's daily caregiving practice (often residing around one's neck), one can see that technology has always been a part of nursing care. 

The difference is in how complex the technology is becoming and necessary for nurses and healthcare professionals to be able to advocate for appropriate and effective tools for care delivery. 

So, as we see more tools emerge, reflect on your stethoscope and how valuable that is to your care delivery skills and abilities. Consider how these new tools could be beneficial for care and share your perspective. The same is true for how these tools could have unintended consequences. Your voice will be important for both instances. 

Have a lovely start to the month!

~ Dr. Kelley