In today’s day and age, nurses need to know a great deal beyond just the science behind nursing. In order for a modern nurse to be effective at their job, they need to understand how to incorporate healthcare technology in the workplace. Every day there is something new to learn about modern healthcare technology, but these basics should help any prospective nurse get the job they want. Here’s what nurses need to know about technology.
The importance of healthcare technology
Currently, nurses are finding they need to be technologically knowledgeable in order to properly do their job. Since many tasks are now automated and many records are kept online, nurses need to understand how to use these systems efficiently and effectively. Their technology training goes beyond utilising Microsoft Word or Excel, nurses need to understand a variety of proprietary systems that only exist in the healthcare field. Even though the initial process of learning these intricate systems may be daunting, in the end they can help the nurses respond to a situation efficiently and effectively. Make sure you know the system you’ll be integrating into so you can get a handle on it before diving in.
Using health data archiving programs and data storage programs
Nurses rely heavily on health data archiving programs and data storage programs for EMR conversions on a regular basis. These programs allow healthcare professions to store valuable information for the mandated number of years according in accordance to federal law. Since the federal law mandates that hospitals and clinics maintain certain records such as patient and lab information, there needs to be a way to store this information efficiently. Instead of relying on boxes and storage facilities, nurses can now utilise the services of the IT department to properly secure this information. These storage programs also allow for nurses to search through the information in a more efficient manner. Make sure you know how to operate these and are familiar with the program your clinic uses.
Mobile technological devices and barcode method
Nurses also tend use other forms of healthcare technology in their daily routine. In many instances, they can use mobile technological devices to perform a variety of different procedures, such as taking vital signs, and performing tests and scans. They can also use a barcode method to make sure they keep track of all the patients and their individual needs. The nurse will use a computer to print out a wristband, which will have all the patient’s pertinent information; such as their reason for the visit, medications that they may be allergic to, medical charts, and even prescription information. This can be especially helpful when several nurses assist a patient.
All nurses need to understand how to appropriate balance the patient’s needs and the reliance of technology. In many instances, the patient would rather have a nurse interact with them one-on-one instead of solely rely on technology to complete his or her job. However, healthcare technology can help streamline the process and allow nurses to do their jobs better.
What else do nurses need to know about technology? Tell us in the comments below.
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