Within in the past decade, there have been several technological advances in the nursing field. From tablet PCs, to mobile electronic charts, to RFID-enabled devices, we think that it’s safe to say that the nursing field is not what it used to be. The healthcare field is evolving and becoming more advanced and efficient. Whether you like it or not, the field is constantly changing and it is time to embrace it.

By embracing these changes, you are increasing your chances to succeed.

The knowledge you have on the new technologies is very critical when landing new jobs. Compassion, and of course, communication also play a major role. But, in modern nursing, one of the prerequisites for nurses today is computer skills (it’s really a prerequisite in any field). This is because, today, computer technology plays a significant role in almost all aspects of nursing, with:

• Administration of drugs
• Monitoring patients’ progress
• Performing assessments

Nurses who want to land a new job would possess a higher chance if they are equipped with the required technological skills.

These skills include:

Barcode Technology:

In nursing, the use of this technology would make your job of tracking medications, as well as patients a lot easier. By simply scanning the barcodes on the patient ID’s, you can easily get to know their medication details along with the dosage information. This particular technology is very helpful when it comes to administering medications appropriately. But, the technology is not flawless, and can come up with errors. Sometimes, the barcode may not even scan correctly.

Electronic Health Records:

Today, several hospitals and care facilities have implemented the use of electronic health records. In simple terms, we can say that this has become an integral part of treating and protecting patients. While implementing this technology is in full swing at hospitals and healthcare organizations, there is a lot that nurses should do to increase its adoption, as well as optimization of electronic health records in a move to improve safety, functionality, and the safe exchange of information. The main challenge, however, lies in reading these charts and documenting their patient’s information. And, above all, the most challenging part of the use of this technology is to secure the privacy of the patient data.

Computer Usage:

It’s very important that you should know how to work on a computer. Well, at least the basics, like word processing, internet, and e-mails. If you lack any computer knowledge, it’ll be difficult for you to even just enter a training program. Even older nurses, who have been in the field longer, must learn to use a computer to perform their daily tasks.

What could be the future of technology in nursing?

From the above discussion, it’s pretty clear that nursing has largely transformed over the past few years. But, the use of technology doesn’t stop here. In the future, nursing is going to require more advanced skills, as well as training. With these new technologies in the forefront, it’s important to treat these advancements with an open-mind.

Genetic-based Treatments:

The advancements in genetic technology will transform the future of nursing as the disease diagnosis will start to occur at molecular levels. Also, by being able to understand the outcomes of therapies on genetic levels, you will be able to deliver personalized treatments.

Medical Robots:

A little too science-fiction? Maybe. But, this is already in development. Robots are being planned to help aid in diagnoses and surgeries in the future. This doesn’t mean that you would be replaced, but it does mean, that you might be working alongside them.

Smartphones:

It is expected that all healthcare professionals will be provided with smartphones while on duty. This technology will replace current badging & paging practices sooner. Also, it will enable the nurses to access electronic charts and/or reference tools on the spot. Furthermore, texting and messaging can be used to exchange information among the different members of the care team.

Bottom Line:

The effect of technology in the healthcare field can’t be discounted. We can’t deny the fact that technology has improved the nursing field significantly, which is why nurses should embrace technology rather than reject it. Also, this is the reason why tech-savvy nurses are in high demand to fill in the RN job positions. The good thing is that these skills can be acquired and worked on at any point in your career. So, start learning today!