HUMAN TECHNOLOGY INTERFACE

Human Technology Interface allows human interaction with an electronic information system either by inputting data or providing output. Nowadays technology has advanced to the extent that we are going more towards voice activated devices. All devices providing an interface between the user and computer machines are considered HIDs. The Human Technology Interface focus also examines the balance between the technology impact on patients, providers, health care systems and society with the social, legal, ethical and public policy issues on the humanistic side. Some of the interesting technological interfaces available include integrated solutions like teleICU, patient portals ,clinician EHR, barcode medication scanners, smart infusion pumps, video sign language interpreter,telehealth,video conferencing and  defibrillators.

Impact on Nursing Care

Human technology interface is transforming the way nursing care is conceptualized and delivered. Before extensive application of technology, nurses relied heavily on their senses of sight, touch, smell, and hearing to monitor patient status and to detect changes. Nowadays the nurses’ unaided senses were replaced with technology designed to detect physical changes in patient conditions.With electronic charting, nurses have the capability of accessing information quickly and efficiently and are able to use information to improve the quality of nursing workflow I am particularly impressed by Infusion pumpswith Drug Libraries at the point of care. They enable nurses to carry out safer drug delivery. Implementation of new technologies also offers nurses an avenue for ensuring safe and efficient use of technology .In many institutions use of clinical champions, local opinion leaders or super users of any new equipment may greatly facilitate smooth implementation of new equipment. By virtue of their knowledge, clinical competence and accessibility, clinical leaders can offer on-the-spot training, encouragement, advice, and troubleshooting expertise to other staff as workers are learning to use new equipment.

Impact on patient care and patient experience.

With technology interface, patients are able to access their medical records from home via the patient portals.Technology such as telehealth is helping improve quality of care and patient experiences.Patients can have a video conference with their doctor in the comfort of their homes. Many people do not like going to hospitals and this interface meets all their expectations.

References

Powell-Cope G, Nelson AL, Patterson ES. Patient Care Technology and Safety. In: Hughes RG, editor. Patient Safety and Quality: An Evidence-Based Handbook for Nurses. Rockville (MD): Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US); 2008 Apr. Chapter 50. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2686/

Longo, B., & Reese, C. (2014). Human-Technology Interface: Computers & Vision Health. Nevada Rnformation, 23(1), 8-19 12p.

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