Table of Contents
Changes in Nursing Work Due to Technology Implementation
The integration of technology into nursing practice has led to notable changes in the work characteristics of nurses. Various technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, and mobile health applications, have transformed traditional nursing roles. According to Bornhaupt and Mulder (2025), the implementation of new technologies has resulted in significant alterations in task, social, and contextual characteristics of work in nursing.
Task Characteristics
Task characteristics have been profoundly affected by technology. The introduction of EHRs has streamlined documentation processes, allowing for more efficient patient data management. However, it has also increased the complexity of tasks, requiring nurses to adapt to new systems and protocols (Bornhaupt & Mulder, 2025). Additionally, technologies such as barcode medication administration systems have standardized medication administration processes, thereby enhancing safety but potentially reducing the autonomy of nursing staff (Moore et al., 2020).
Social Characteristics
Social interactions among healthcare professionals have also been altered. Telehealth technologies have facilitated remote consultations, enhancing collaboration between nurses and other healthcare providers (Petrakaki & Kornelakis, 2016). However, there are concerns about decreased face-to-face interactions, which may impact team dynamics and communication (Koltsida & Jonasson, 2021). The social environment within nursing teams is critical for effective collaboration, and technology must be integrated thoughtfully to support, rather than hinder, these relationships.
Contextual Characteristics
The contextual characteristics of nursing work have shifted with the advent of new technologies. The physical and organizational environments in which nurses operate have changed, with more reliance on digital tools and less emphasis on traditional methods (Bornhaupt & Mulder, 2025). For instance, the use of mobile health applications allows nurses to access patient information on-the-go, promoting flexibility in care delivery (Gough et al., 2014). However, this shift may also contribute to increased physical demands on nurses as they navigate between patient care and technology usage.
Components of Professional Development in Nursing
Professional development in nursing encompasses several critical components that are essential for adapting to the increasing demands of the healthcare environment. As technology continues to advance, nurses must engage in ongoing learning to maintain their competencies. The three primary components of professional development as identified by Bornhaupt and Mulder (2025) are elaboration, expansion, and externalization.
Elaboration
Elaboration involves reflecting on one’s own experiences and behaviors to enhance personal competencies. With the integration of technology, nurses are encouraged to reflect on their interactions with new systems and processes. For example, after using a new electronic documentation system, a nurse may reflect on the challenges faced and develop strategies to overcome them, thus enhancing their skills and knowledge.
Expansion
Expansion refers to the development of theoretical and conceptual understanding through engagement with external inputs. Technological advancements often introduce new knowledge requirements for nurses. For instance, attending workshops on telehealth practices can provide nurses with critical insights into effective patient communication and care delivery in a virtual setting (Moore et al., 2020).
Externalization
Externalization involves sharing knowledge and experiences with colleagues to foster team development. As nurses adapt to technological changes, sharing insights about best practices and challenges can enhance team performance. For example, a nurse who has successfully integrated a new mobile health application into their practice could share their experience with peers, contributing to collective learning and improvement.
Key Learning Activities Triggered by Technological Advances
Technological changes in nursing practice have triggered various learning activities that are crucial for professional development. According to Bornhaupt and Mulder (2025), these activities can be categorized into three main types: experimentation, reflection, and collaboration.
Experimentation
Nurses often engage in experimentation when adapting to new technologies. This could involve trialing a new electronic health record system or exploring innovative ways to utilize telehealth platforms. Experimentation allows nurses to familiarize themselves with technology and discover how it can best serve their practice.
Reflection
Reflection is a critical learning activity that enables nurses to assess their experiences with technology. By considering what worked well and what did not, nurses can refine their approaches to care delivery. For instance, after using a new patient monitoring system, a nurse might reflect on how the technology impacted patient outcomes and their workflow efficiency.
Collaboration
Collaboration among nursing staff is enhanced through technology, as digital tools facilitate communication and teamwork. For example, the use of instant messaging applications can allow nurses to quickly share information and updates regarding patient care, fostering a collaborative environment that supports professional growth.
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Nursing Competencies
The role of technology in enhancing nursing competencies cannot be understated. As healthcare continues to evolve, the need for nurses to possess technological competencies has become increasingly important. Technology not only aids in the efficient delivery of patient care but also supports the development of essential nursing skills.
Clinical Competence
Technological tools, such as simulation-based training programs, enable nurses to practice and refine their clinical skills in a safe environment. This hands-on experience enhances their clinical competence and prepares them for real-world patient interactions. For example, virtual simulations can provide nurses with opportunities to practice complex procedures and decision-making skills, leading to improved patient care (Huang et al., 2020).
Communication Skills
Effective communication is a fundamental competency for nurses, and technology plays a pivotal role in developing these skills. Telehealth platforms, for instance, require nurses to communicate effectively with patients remotely, utilizing verbal and non-verbal cues to ensure clear understanding (Hong et al., 2021). By engaging in virtual consultations, nurses can enhance their communication abilities and adapt their approaches to meet diverse patient needs.
Critical Thinking
The use of technology in nursing promotes critical thinking skills as nurses navigate complex clinical situations. Electronic health records and clinical decision support systems provide nurses with access to real-time patient data, enabling them to make informed decisions based on evidence (Beer & Mulder, 2020). This access to information encourages nurses to engage in critical analysis and develop problem-solving strategies that enhance patient outcomes.
Strategies for Effective Technology Integration in Healthcare
To maximize the benefits of technology in nursing, effective integration strategies must be employed. Organizations must consider various factors to ensure that technology enhances rather than hinders nursing practice.
Training and Support
Providing comprehensive training and ongoing support for nurses is essential for successful technology integration. Organizations should invest in training programs that equip nurses with the skills and knowledge needed to utilize new technologies effectively. Additionally, ongoing support through mentorship and access to resources can help nurses navigate challenges as they adapt to technological changes.
Encouraging a Culture of Innovation
Organizations should foster a culture of innovation that encourages nurses to explore new technologies and share their experiences with colleagues. Creating an environment where nurses feel empowered to experiment with technology can lead to improved patient care and professional development.
Collaboration and Feedback
Collaboration among nursing staff, IT professionals, and other stakeholders is crucial for successful technology integration. Regular feedback from nurses regarding their experiences with technology can inform future decisions and improvements. Engaging nurses in the technology selection process can also ensure that the tools meet their needs and enhance their workflows.
FAQ
What are the main components of professional development in nursing?
The main components of professional development in nursing include elaboration, expansion, and externalization.
How does technology impact nursing competencies?
Technology impacts nursing competencies by enhancing clinical competence, communication skills, and critical thinking abilities.
What strategies can organizations implement for effective technology integration?
Organizations can implement training and support, encourage a culture of innovation, and promote collaboration and feedback for effective technology integration.
References
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- Beer, P., & Mulder, R. H. (2020). The effects of technological developments on work and their implications for continuous vocational education and training: a systematic review. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 918. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00918
- Gough, R., Ballardie, R., & Brewer, P. (2014). New technology and nurses. Labour & Industry, 24(1), 9-25
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- Hong, J. Y., Ivory, C. H., Van Houten, C. B., Simpson, C. L., & Novak, L. L. (2021). Disappearing expertise in clinical automation: barcode medication administration and nurse autonomy. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 28(2), 232-238
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- Moore, E. C., Tolley, C. L., Bates, D. W., & Slight, S. P. (2020). A systematic review of the impact of health information technology on nurses’ time. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 27(5), 798-807
- Petrakaki, D., & Kornelakis, A. (2016). We can only request what’s in our protocol’: technology and work autonomy in healthcare. New Technology, Work and Employment, 31(3), 223-237
- Vallée, A. (2024). Exoskeleton technology in nursing practice: assessing effectiveness, usability, and impact on nurses’ quality of work life, a narrative review. BMC Nursing, 23, 156. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-024-01821-3
- Barchielli, C., Marullo, C., Bonciani, M., & Vainieri, M. (2021). Nurses and the acceptance of innovations in technology-intensive contexts: the need for tailored management strategies. BMC Health Services Research, 21, 639. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-021-06628-5
