Supportive Technology That Keeps APRNs One Step Ahead of Medical Crises

Supportive Technology in Healthcare

Supportive technology encompasses a range of devices and systems designed to assist healthcare providers, particularly Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), in delivering care more efficiently and effectively. These technologies range from companion robots to smart beds, radiofrequency-based medical devices, and virtual reality (VR) for training and patient care. The integration of supportive technology into healthcare practices has revolutionized patient monitoring, data collection, and overall patient outcomes, enhancing the ability of APRNs to make informed decisions and take proactive measures.

One of the most significant advancements in supportive technology is the development of companion robots, which provide emotional and physical support to elderly, infirm, or mentally disabled individuals. These robots not only interact with patients but also help them with daily tasks, such as reminding them to take medications or sending critical health data to healthcare teams remotely.

Bio Data and Professional Information Table

Smart Bed Technology

Smart bed technology is another crucial aspect of supportive technology. APRNs can use smart beds to monitor patient movement, weight, and vital signs without constant direct observation. These beds can provide real-time data on patient activity, alerting healthcare professionals to potential issues such as falls or improper bed configuration for critical care patients. Advanced smart beds offer remote monitoring capabilities and can send alerts directly to an APRN’s smartphone when urgent intervention is needed.

With real-time visibility on any web-enabled device, smart bed technology enables nurses and other healthcare providers to maintain continuous awareness of their patients’ conditions, thereby enhancing patient safety and reducing the time spent on manual monitoring.

Radiofrequency-Based Medical Devices

Radiofrequency-based medical devices, including those that use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and mobile cellular communication, are integral to modern healthcare delivery. These devices allow APRNs to remotely monitor patients, program medical devices, and transfer data seamlessly between platforms. However, the benefits of wireless technology come with risks, such as potential interference from other wireless devices and the need for strong security protocols to prevent data breaches.

Radiofrequency Identification (RFID) technology, which uses wireless communication between tags and readers, has multiple applications in healthcare. RFID systems are employed for asset tagging, equipment tracking, and personnel monitoring, among other uses. They can also detect whether patients have left their beds, an important feature for fall prevention. Despite the advantages, there are concerns regarding electromagnetic interference, especially for patients with implantable devices like pacemakers.

Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS)

A Real-Time Location System (RTLS) utilizes tags, badges, and wireless technology such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to monitor the location of assets, staff, and patients within healthcare facilities. APRNs and healthcare administrators can log into a centralized system to see real-time updates on the whereabouts of vital equipment or staff, making operations more efficient and reducing the time spent searching for people or resources.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals leveraged RTLS to track contact tracing and prevent the spread of infections. The system collects vast amounts of data that can be analyzed to improve workflows, patient throughput, and utilization of resources. RTLS is now commonly used in outpatient clinics and hospitals for everything from operating room scheduling to patient tracking.

Geofencing and Virtual Reality (VR)

Geofencing technology has also found its place in healthcare. This system uses GPS, RFID, Wi-Fi, or cellular data to create a virtual boundary around a specific geographic location. When a patient crosses this boundary, an alert is triggered, allowing APRNs to track patient movements and identify arrivals at specific locations, such as emergency rooms. Geofencing also has applications in clinical trials, where trial managers can be notified when participants enter or leave a designated area.

Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly being used in healthcare for both educational and therapeutic purposes. In nursing schools, VR allows students to immerse themselves in virtual simulations, giving them hands-on experience in a controlled environment. VR is also used to help patients become familiar with hospital environments, easing anxiety before surgery by simulating the process from admission to the operating room.

Augmented Reality (AR) in Healthcare

Unlike VR, which immerses users in a fully synthetic world, Augmented Reality (AR) overlays digital elements onto the real world. In healthcare, AR is used for patient education and rehabilitation. For instance, patients undergoing physical therapy for knee surgery might practice walking on real stairs while interacting with digitally augmented crutches. AR enhances the learning experience by providing a more immersive and interactive environment for patients and healthcare providers.

Wireless and Device Technology for APRN Practice

Supportive technology goes beyond just monitoring systems and robots. APRNs are now expected to understand and manage the data generated from smart devices and wearables used by patients. For instance, continuous glucose monitors, smartwatches, and smartphones that track vital signs can provide APRNs with up-to-date patient information. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), this data can be analyzed to predict potential health issues, allowing healthcare providers to intervene early.

The integration of supportive technology into everyday healthcare practice has streamlined communication between patients and APRNs. Patients now have access to telehealth platforms, secure messaging systems, and virtual assistants, all of which contribute to improved patient outcomes and more efficient care delivery.

FAQs

What is supportive technology in healthcare?
Supportive technology in healthcare refers to tools and systems that assist healthcare providers in monitoring, treating, and caring for patients, such as companion robots, smart beds, and wearable health devices.

How do companion robots benefit patients?
Companion robots offer emotional and physical support, help with daily activities, and send critical health data to healthcare teams, especially for elderly or disabled patients.

What are smart beds used for in healthcare?
Smart beds track patient movement, weight, and vital signs, providing real-time updates to healthcare providers, improving patient safety, and reducing the need for manual monitoring.

What risks are associated with wireless medical devices?
While wireless devices provide mobility and real-time data, they can be vulnerable to interference and security breaches, making it important to ensure proper security measures are in place.

How is virtual reality (VR) used in healthcare?
VR is used for training healthcare professionals and simulating patient experiences, helping reduce anxiety and improve patient education.