For this assignment research an emerging health care technology that you think has the potential to overcome current or emerging barriers to care

For this assignment research an emerging health care technology that you think has the potential to overcome current or emerging barriers to 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:

1. 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.
2. Describe ethical or legal issues that would accompany the incorporation of the technology.
3. Explain the nurse’s informatics role in regard to the technology. Provide examples of the roles and job functions.
4. 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.

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10 Examples of Smart Technology in Healthcare: Revolutionizing Patient Care in 2025

The healthcare industry is experiencing a digital transformation unprecedented in its scope and impact. From artificial intelligence-powered diagnostics to Internet of Things (IoT) devices that monitor patients in real-time, smart technology is reshaping how we approach medical care, disease prevention, and health management. This revolution is not just about adopting new tools—it’s about fundamentally reimagining the patient experience and improving health outcomes on a global scale.

1. AI-Powered Diagnostic Imaging and Medical Analysis

Image Source: Unsplash

Artificial intelligence has transformed medical imaging, enabling healthcare providers to detect diseases earlier and with greater accuracy than ever before. AI algorithms can now analyze X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and other imaging modalities to identify patterns that might be missed by human eyes. These systems are particularly effective in detecting early-stage cancers, neurological conditions, and cardiovascular diseases.

Modern AI diagnostic tools can process thousands of images in minutes, providing radiologists with detailed analysis and highlighting areas of concern. Some systems can detect the presence of certain diseases before patients even experience symptoms, as demonstrated by companies like AstraZeneca, which has developed machine learning models using medical data from 500,000 people.

The technology extends beyond imaging to pathology, where AI can analyze tissue samples and blood work with remarkable precision. This capability is particularly valuable in areas with limited access to specialized medical professionals, democratizing high-quality diagnostic care.

2. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Systems

Remote patient monitoring has emerged as one of the most impactful smart healthcare technologies, particularly accelerated by the global pandemic. These systems use connected devices to track patients’ vital signs, medication compliance, and overall health status from the comfort of their homes. RPM technologies include wearable sensors, smart scales, blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, and pulse oximeters.

The integration of IoT in healthcare is projected to exceed $534 billion by 2025, with remote monitoring representing a significant portion of this growth. Patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease benefit enormously from continuous monitoring, which allows for early intervention and prevents costly hospital readmissions.

Source: Market.us Media

These systems often incorporate artificial intelligence to analyze trends in patient data, alerting healthcare providers when patterns indicate potential health issues. This proactive approach to healthcare management represents a shift from reactive treatment to preventive care.

3. Wearable Health Devices and Smartwatches

Smartwatch health monitoring Source: Unsplash

Wearable technology has evolved far beyond simple step counting to become sophisticated health monitoring systems. Modern smartwatches and fitness trackers can monitor heart rate variability, detect irregular heart rhythms, measure blood oxygen levels, track sleep patterns, and even provide ECG readings. With an estimated 515 million wearable devices expected to be in healthcare use, this technology has become integral to personal health management.

Leading brands like Apple, Samsung, and Fitbit have received FDA approval for various health monitoring features, including atrial fibrillation detection and blood oxygen monitoring. These devices provide continuous health data that can be shared with healthcare providers, creating a comprehensive picture of a patient’s health over time.

The real power of wearable devices lies in their ability to detect health changes in real-time and alert users to potential issues before they become serious. This early warning system has proven particularly valuable for detecting cardiac events, falls in elderly patients, and changes in activity levels that might indicate declining health.

4. Telemedicine and Virtual Healthcare Platforms

Telemedicine has experienced explosive growth, with virtual healthcare visits increasing by 154% in the United States in 2020 alone. Smart telemedicine platforms now incorporate AI-powered symptom checkers, virtual triage systems, and integrated diagnostic tools that enable comprehensive remote consultations.

Source: CDC.gov

These platforms have evolved to include features like remote vital sign monitoring during video calls, AI-assisted diagnosis recommendations, and integration with electronic health records. Patients can now receive specialized care regardless of their geographic location, breaking down barriers to healthcare access.

Advanced telemedicine systems also incorporate augmented reality and virtual reality technologies, allowing for more immersive consultations and even remote surgical guidance. This technology has proven particularly valuable in rural areas and developing countries where access to specialized medical care is limited.

5. Smart Hospitals and IoT Infrastructure

Smart hospitals represent the pinnacle of healthcare technology integration, where IoT devices, AI systems, and automation work together to create more efficient and safer care environments. These facilities use interconnected systems to monitor everything from patient vital signs to equipment status, environmental conditions, and staff workflows.

IoT-enabled hospital beds can automatically adjust based on patient needs, monitor patient movement to prevent falls, and alert staff to changes in patient condition. Smart IV pumps prevent medication errors through automated dosing and alerts, while environmental sensors maintain optimal conditions for patient recovery and infection control.

Asset tracking systems using RFID and Bluetooth technology help hospitals locate critical equipment quickly, reducing delays in patient care. These smart systems also optimize energy usage, manage patient flow, and streamline administrative processes, ultimately improving both patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

6. AI-Powered Drug Discovery and Development

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing pharmaceutical research by accelerating drug discovery processes that traditionally took decades and billions of dollars. AI algorithms can analyze molecular structures, predict drug interactions, and identify potential therapeutic compounds from vast databases of chemical information.

Machine learning models can simulate how drugs will interact with human biology, reducing the need for extensive animal testing and helping researchers focus on the most promising candidates. This approach has already led to the discovery of new treatments for various diseases, including COVID-19 therapeutics that were developed in record time.

AI also plays a crucial role in personalized medicine, helping researchers understand how genetic variations affect drug response and enabling the development of targeted therapies. This precision approach to drug development promises more effective treatments with fewer side effects.

7. Robotic Surgery and Surgical Assistance

Robotic surgery systems have transformed surgical procedures by providing surgeons with enhanced precision, improved visualization, and greater dexterity. These systems use AI to assist with surgical planning, real-time guidance, and outcome prediction, making complex procedures safer and more effective.

Modern surgical robots incorporate machine learning algorithms that can analyze surgical techniques and provide feedback to improve outcomes. Some systems can even perform certain procedures autonomously under surgeon supervision, reducing human error and improving consistency.

The integration of augmented reality in robotic surgery allows surgeons to see through tissue layers and visualize critical structures during operations. This technology is particularly valuable in neurosurgery, cardiac procedures, and minimally invasive operations where precision is paramount.

8. Smart Contact Lenses and Implantable Devices

Smart contact lenses represent one of the most innovative applications of healthcare IoT technology. These devices can monitor intraocular pressure for glaucoma patients, track glucose levels for diabetics, and even provide augmented reality overlays for vision enhancement.

Google and other technology companies have developed prototypes that can continuously monitor tear glucose levels, providing diabetic patients with a non-invasive alternative to finger-stick blood tests. These lenses use microscopic sensors and wireless transmission to communicate data to external devices.

Implantable smart devices, including pacemakers, insulin pumps, and neural implants, have become increasingly sophisticated. Modern devices can adapt their function based on patient activity, communicate with smartphones and healthcare providers, and even receive software updates to improve performance over time.

9. Blockchain for Healthcare Data Security and Interoperability

Blockchain technology visualization Source: Unsplash

Blockchain technology addresses one of healthcare’s most persistent challenges: secure, interoperable data sharing. Smart healthcare systems built on blockchain platforms ensure that patient data remains private and secure while enabling authorized healthcare providers to access comprehensive medical histories instantly.

This technology creates an immutable record of medical transactions, from prescription drug supply chains to clinical trial data, ensuring authenticity and preventing fraud. Patients gain greater control over their health data, deciding who can access their information and for what purposes.

Blockchain-enabled healthcare systems also facilitate medical research by providing secure platforms for sharing anonymized patient data across institutions. This capability accelerates medical discoveries while maintaining strict privacy protections.

10. AI-Powered Mental Health and Behavioral Analytics

Smart technology is making significant inroads in mental health care through AI-powered platforms that can detect, monitor, and treat various psychological conditions. These systems analyze speech patterns, facial expressions, smartphone usage patterns, and other behavioral indicators to assess mental health status.

Mobile applications use natural language processing to provide cognitive behavioral therapy, while AI chatbots offer 24/7 support for individuals experiencing mental health crises. These tools are particularly valuable in addressing the global shortage of mental health professionals.

Advanced systems can predict mental health episodes before they occur by analyzing patterns in patient behavior and communication. This predictive capability enables proactive intervention and support, potentially preventing hospitalizations and improving long-term outcomes.

The Future of Smart Healthcare Technology

The convergence of artificial intelligence, IoT devices, robotics, and advanced analytics is creating unprecedented opportunities to improve healthcare outcomes while reducing costs. As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications that push the boundaries of what’s possible in medical care.

The integration of quantum computing, advanced genomics, and nanotechnology promises to unlock new frontiers in personalized medicine, drug discovery, and disease prevention. However, the success of these technologies will ultimately depend on addressing challenges related to data privacy, regulatory approval, healthcare equity, and the need for healthcare professionals to adapt to rapidly changing technological landscapes.

Smart healthcare technology is not just about implementing new tools—it’s about creating a more connected, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare ecosystem that can adapt to the evolving needs of patients and providers alike. As we move forward, the focus must remain on ensuring that these technological advances translate into tangible improvements in human health and well-being.