Technology and its effect on knowing the patient: a clinical issue analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Technology
• Patient Care

Background:

• Historically, nurses had more time to know patients due to longer hospital stays.
• Nursing research confirms "knowing the patient" is crucial for quality care and satisfaction.
• Current healthcare environments present significant time challenges for nurses to establish patient rapport.

Purpose of the Study:

• To underscore the significance of "knowing the patient" in contemporary nursing practice.
• To explore how technological advancements can facilitate nurses in knowing their patients.
• To advocate for technology investment as a means to enhance patient-centered care.

Main Methods:

• A clinical issue analysis framework was employed for manuscript development.
• Literature review and conceptual analysis were used to explore the topic.

Main Results:

• Knowing the patient is identified as a cornerstone of high-quality patient care.
• Acquiring sufficient time to know patients is increasingly difficult in modern healthcare settings.
• Technology can generate a holistic clinical patient portrait, aiding nurses in understanding patients.

Conclusions:

• Investing in technology can empower nurses to "know the patient" as a person.
• Enhanced patient knowledge through technology can lead to improved patient outcomes.
• Technological support for knowing patients can boost both patient and nurse satisfaction.