Technology use in pediatric cardiovascular surgery intensive care nursing: a qualitative study

The increasing integration of technology into intensive care settings has significantly influenced nursing practice, clinical decision-making, and care delivery processes. However, there is limited qualitative evidence exploring how nurses experience and interpret the use of technology, particularly in specialized settings such as pediatric cardiovascular surgery intensive care units.

This study aimed to explore the experiences, perceptions, and evaluations of nurses regarding the use of technology in a pediatric cardiovascular surgery intensive care unit.

This qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 24 nurses working in a pediatric cardiovascular surgery intensive care unit. Participants were recruited using snowball sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews lasting approximately 30-35 min. The interview guide was developed by the researchers based on relevant literature. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis as described by Braun and Clarke. The study was reported in accordance with the COREQ checklist, and trustworthiness was ensured using Lincoln and Guba's criteria.

Four main themes were identified: (1) technology and care organization, (2) technological transformation in nursing practice, (3) institutional gaps in technological competence, and (4) multidimensional impact of technology. Technology was perceived as facilitating patient monitoring, supporting timely interventions, and contributing to more structured care processes. While participants indicated that technology may reduce physical workload, it was also associated with increased cognitive demands. Nurses reported that existing training opportunities were limited and emphasized the need for more structured and practice-based educational support.

Technology is perceived as an integral component of care in pediatric cardiovascular surgery intensive care settings, influencing both clinical processes and nursing practice. However, the findings suggest that its effective and safe use depends on strengthened training programs, institutional support, and attention to cognitive and ethical dimensions of care.