Provide an overview of the emerging technology and its role/function in health care
New health care innovations offer the advanced registered nurse an opportunity to apply emerging technologies in practice to improve quality and patient outcomes. For this assignment, research an emerging health care technology that you think has the potential to overcome current or emerging barriers to care.
Write a 500-750-word brief. Include the following:
- Provide an overview of the emerging technology and its role/function in health care. Consider its potential for improving access to care and promoting patient safety and quality.
- Describe ethical or legal issues that would accompany the incorporation of the technology.
- Explain the nurse\’s informatics role in regard to the technology. Provide examples of the roles and job functions.
- Outline the role of workflow analysis, human factors, and user-centered design concepts for your chosen technology example.
Refer to the topic Resources for samples and resources to help you construct your brief.
You are required to cite three to five sources to complete this assignment. Sources must be published within the last 5 years and appropriate for the assignment criteria and nursing content.
Expert Answer and Explanation
Emerging Technology Brief
Overview of the Emerging Technology and its Role in Health Care
The global Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry is thriving, with players across different sectors leveraging the AI to improve operational efficiency, and enhance decision-making. In healthcare sector, the AI use is widespread, with pharmacists utilizing it to inform decisions when prescribing medications because this technology integrates capabilities such as the ability identify adverse drug events based on specific patient characteristics. Specifically, the AI adopts a capability that makes it mimic human brain by developing the capability to predict the working of the medication relative to the human chemical components.
The AI integrates the data-analysis ability, which also explains the reason why it is popular among players within the healthcare industry (Bohr & Memarzadeh, 2020). If a physician wants to accurately make diagnosis, they can utilize an AI tool to analyze a sample collected from a patient, and make diagnosis. Considering these elements pertaining to AI use, the AI use can potentially help improve patients’ access to health services.
Ethical and Legal Issues that Would Accompany the Incorporation of the Technology
Despite the opportunities that come with AI use, its use in healthcare raises legal and ethical issues. One of the legal concerns linked to the use of this technology is the lack of informed consent when handling data. The apps with AI capability can mine data, and use this data even without the user’s permission. Because some of these apps have security vulnerabilities, they pose the risk of attacks, causing the breach of data privacy. Questions equally arise when it comes to ensuring the integrity of the information generated by the technology because the malfunction of the AI tool, can lead to wrong predictions (Davenport & Kalakota, 2019).
If the AI recommends the wrong treatment, for instance, it can lead to serious complications. The reliance on AI as a decision-making tool raises the risk of bias especially when working with patients from diverse settings. If the AI is trained to work with data derived from a specific ethnic group, for instance, the AI may make wrong prediction when working with people from other ethnic groups (Sharma et al., 2022).
The Nurse’s Informatics Role In Regard to the Technology
Regarding the utilization of AI, the nurse informatics plays a vital role. For instance, they are responsible of collecting meaningful data as they consider the aspects of the data such as the patient’s characteristics, the frequency of the medication use, and the types of medications they use. The AI technology synthesizes this data, coming up with meaningful inferences that can help predict treatment outcomes (Bajwa et al., 2021). The nurse also provides a key role in ensuring that the systems that integrate the AI technology meet security standards, and those who use the AI tools, understand the meaningful use policies, to help avoid data breach.
The Role of Workflow Analysis, Human Factors, and User-Centered Design Concepts for the Chosen Technology
When it comes to the AI, the workflow analysis helps determine the aspects of the technology that the developer should work on. For instance, it can help determine the problem with making predictions. Through training the AI, the AI can generate responses based on human input, easing the time it takes for one to make decisions (Basu et al., 2020). When designing the AI system, it is important to involve users to share information that can help develop meaningful AI tools.
References
Bajwa, J., Munir, U., Nori, A., & Williams, B. (2021). Artificial intelligence in healthcare: transforming the practice of medicine. Future healthcare journal, 8(2), e188–e194. https://doi.org/10.7861/fhj.2021-0095.
Basu, K., Sinha, R., Ong, A., & Basu, T. (2020). Artificial Intelligence: How is It Changing Medical Sciences and Its Future?. Indian journal of dermatology, 65(5), 365–370. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijd.IJD_421_20.
Bohr, A., & Memarzadeh, K. (2020). The rise of artificial intelligence in healthcare applications. Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, 25–60. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-818438-7.00002-2.
Davenport, T., & Kalakota, R. (2019). The potential for artificial intelligence in healthcare. Future healthcare journal, 6(2), 94–98. https://doi.org/10.7861/futurehosp.6-2-94.
Sharma, M., Savage, C., Nair, M., Larsson, I., Svedberg, P., & Nygren, J. M. (2022). Artificial Intelligence Applications in Health Care Practice: Scoping Review. Journal of medical Internet research, 24(10), e40238. https://doi.org/10.2196/40238.
Alternative Expert Answer
Enhancing Patient Care Through Remote Patient Monitoring
Technological developments in healthcare continue to influence the way care is provided, opening up new possibilities to enhance patient outcomes and accessibility. One notable new emerging technology that has the potential to close gaps in the provision of healthcare is remote patient monitoring, or RPM (Ravikumar et al., 2023). This technology facilitates continuity of treatment by enabling medical professionals to monitor patients’ health outside of clinical settings. RPM is a major step toward safer, more responsive patient-centered practices as the healthcare system develops. The strategy is essential
Emerging Health Care Technology: Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)
A rapidly growing medical technology called remote patient monitoring (RPM) allows healthcare professionals to keep an eye on patients’ health information outside of conventional clinical settings. Wearable biosensors, Bluetooth-enabled glucometers, and smart blood pressure cuffs are examples of devices that collect data in real time and securely send it to medical teams (Ravikumar et al., 2023). This technology significantly improves access to care for patients in underserved or remote areas, lowers hospital readmissions, and manages chronic diseases. Timely intervention and ongoing monitoring, which enable early diagnosis of deterioration in health condition, can lead to improved patient outcomes.
Knowing that their health is being actively monitored gives patients greater convenience and reassurance, which can boost their sense of involvement in managing their conditions. By more effectively allocating resources, health care institutions may focus in-person care on individuals who actually need it (Ravikumar et al., 2023). By monitoring recovery progress and notifying doctors of any difficulties, RPM also aids in post-discharge care.
It makes it possible to implement more proactive care models in which possible problems are resolved before they become more serious. As this technology continues to advance, it is becoming more integrated into routine clinical workflows, signaling a shift in how care is delivered and managed.
Ethical and Legal Considerations and the Christian Worldview
Significant moral and legal questions are brought up by the use of RPM in patient care. To guarantee adherence to HIPAA requirements, patient privacy and data security must be given first priority. Patients must completely comprehend the ramifications of remotely sharing sensitive health information, therefore informed permission and patient autonomy are equally crucial (Adeleke et al., 2024).
Through human dignity, fairness, and compassion, the Christian worldview aids in moral decision-making. Technology that reduces pain and enhances wellbeing is supported by compassion. While respect for human dignity guarantees that technology use is person-centered and mindful of individual values and preferences, justice demands that RPM be made equally available to a variety of people.
The Nurse’s Informatics Role in Remote Patient Monitoring
Registered nurses contribute significantly to the effective implementation and operation of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) systems through an effective combination of clinical expertise and technological competence. Configuring and overseeing RPM devices, advising patients on their use, and converting the data gathered into useful care interventions are frequently among their duties (Coffey et al., 2022).
They usually collaborate with other medical specialists to decipher alarms, plan prompt actions, and modify treatment regimens in light of current data. In order to evaluate system performance, these practitioners also participate in patient outcome reviews and feedback collection. They are crucial players in making sure RPM runs efficiently in healthcare settings because of their capacity to connect clinical demands with digital tools.
When using remote care tools, nurses, as trusted healthcare professionals, make sure patients feel empowered and supported. Their ability to communicate effectively helps patients feel less anxious when using technology and enhances adherence to monitoring procedures. It would be challenging for nurses to maintain continuity of care in underserved or rural locations without the use of RPM (Coffey et al., 2022). Their involvement in care coordination reduces needless hospital stays by facilitating quicker response when symptoms deteriorate. By means of continuous education and advocacy, nurses continue to hone their role in the context of digital health, assisting providers and patients in adjusting to new technologies.
Workflow Analysis, Human Factors, and User-Centered Design
Thorough workflow analysis, close consideration of human factors, and a strong emphasis on user-centered design are all essential for the successful implementation of RPM. How RPM may be smoothly incorporated into current clinical procedures without interfering with care continuity is determined via workflow analysis. Human factors engineering makes sure the technology is user-friendly and intuitive by taking into account the mental and physical demands placed on patients and healthcare professionals (Kalun et al., 2022).
The end user’s experience is given priority in user-centered design, which frequently results in increased adherence and engagement. When carefully implemented, these design concepts promote RPM’s scalability and sustainability in healthcare settings.
Conclusion
One revolutionary way to address some of the most important issues facing the healthcare industry is through remote patient monitoring. This technology promotes both quality and safety through better data-driven decision-making, increased patient engagement, and greater access. Nurses are essential to the successful integration of ethical problems, which require careful attention. RPM may play a key role in shaping the future of compassionate and easily accessible healthcare with the correct design principles and informatics engagement.
References
Adeleke, I. T., Suleiman-Abdul, Q. B., Mallo, M. K., Oguzierem, M., Eidah, Y. S., & Adebisi, A. A. (2024). Health Information Ethics in the Light of Two Prominent World Religions-Islam and Christianity. IMAN MEDICAL JOURNAL, 10(1). https://nigerianjournalsonline.com/index.php/IMAN/article/view/5051
Coffey, J. D., Christopherson, L. A., Williams, R. D., Gathje, S. R., Bell, S. J., Pahl, D. F., … & Haddad, T. C. (2022). Development and implementation of a nurse-based remote patient monitoring program for ambulatory disease management. Frontiers in digital health, 4, 1052408. https://doi.org/10.3389/fdgth.2022.1052408
Kalun, C. O., Holden, R. J., & Valdez, R. S. (2022). Human factors engineering and user-centered design for mobile health technology: enhancing effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction. In Human-Automation interaction: mobile computing (pp. 97-118). Cham: Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-10788-7_6
Ravikumar, C., Sudheer, P., & Kumar, P. D. (2023). An overview of remote patient monitoring for improved patient care and cost reduction: the Iot revolutionizing health care. International Journal of Education and Management Engineering, 13(6), 33. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0809-5545
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FAQs
What is the role of technology in improving patient safety and promoting a safe environment?
The role of technology in improving patient safety and promoting a safe healthcare environment includes:
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) – Reduce errors by providing accurate, up-to-date patient information and medication histories.
Barcoding systems – Enhance medication safety through barcode scanning during administration.
Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) – Alert providers to potential drug interactions, allergies, or abnormal lab results.
Telehealth – Increases access to care and reduces exposure to infectious diseases.
Smart infusion pumps – Ensure accurate medication dosing and alert staff to potential errors.
Automated dispensing systems – Improve medication management and reduce theft or human error.
Real-time locating systems (RTLS) – Track equipment and staff to improve workflow and emergency response times.
Patient monitoring systems – Detect early signs of deterioration and notify healthcare providers promptly.
Which emerging health care technology has potential to overcome current or emerging barriers to care?
One emerging healthcare technology with strong potential to overcome current and future barriers to care is telehealth.
Telehealth improves access by:
Reaching rural and underserved areas – Patients can receive care without traveling long distances.
Reducing wait times – Offers faster access to providers through virtual visits.
Enhancing chronic disease management – Enables regular remote monitoring and follow-up.
Supporting mental health care – Breaks stigma and increases privacy for behavioral health services.
Lowering costs – Reduces the need for in-person visits and emergency room usage.
Other promising technologies include artificial intelligence (AI) for diagnostics, mobile health apps, and remote patient monitoring—all helping to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.
How has technology played a role in improving our health?
Technology has played a vital role in improving our health by enhancing diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and patient engagement. Key contributions include:
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) – Improve care coordination and reduce medical errors.
Telemedicine – Increases access to healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Wearable devices – Monitor heart rate, physical activity, sleep, and chronic conditions in real-time.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Assists in early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and analyzing large datasets.
Mobile health apps – Support medication reminders, fitness goals, and mental health tracking.
Robotic surgery and advanced imaging – Offer precision, reduced recovery times, and better outcomes.
Health information systems – Enable data-driven decisions and public health surveillance.
