In the coming decade, advances in technology will impact how nurses perform their myriad of functions. As in most fields, some nurses will be reluctant to embrace every new technological advance, while others will gladly accept it.
The downside is that new technology often requires extensive training. The upside is that technological advancements in healthcare typically increase the number of jobs related to the field. Ultrasounds, MRIs, respiratory therapy, nuclear medicine and many other technologies have launched new jobs for specialists--often filled by nurses.
Advancements in technology have also improved healthcare and patient care. Before the development of electronic IV monitors and IV pump infusions, nurses had to remain by the patient's side to ensure the procedure's safety. Another simple but much appreciated time-saving tool is the electronic blood pressure cuff that also records the patient's heartbeat.
Technology has also vastly streamlined patient and hospital records. Computerized programs for medication dispensing, hospital occupancy and insurance and payment programs have taken a sizeable load off nurses. A patient's medical history can be pulled up and updated in seconds. Portable computing equipment and Internet access lets nurses even update this information while on the go.
As technology pushes nursing into more specialized areas, the need for nurses trained in these technologies will rise. And that's good news in these tough times.
For an additional perspective, check out this video:
Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs and view additional job postings on Nexxt.
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