The Use of Technology in Promoting Patient Safety in Nursing Practice

Considering that a study shows medical errors are now the third leading cause of death in the U.S., it’s more important than ever to promote patient safety. It’s a number one concern for nurses, and technology can help while they’re learning and practicing as well as when they’re out in the field. Nurses and nursing students use tech to better focus on patients. 

We’ve outlined four types of technology to promote patient safety in nursing practice and identified where UbiSim, immersive nursing VR, can help. 

1. Electronic Health Records (EHRs): 

EHRs enable healthcare professionals to access a patient's medical history, medication allergies, and other vital information quickly, which helps prevent errors in prescribing medication or treatments. Nurses can see real-time updates to the patient's labs and diagnostics and document the patient's condition, medication administration, etc. EHRs are designed to reduce errors because all of the patient’s information is compiled in one place. 

UbiSim: Learners can access an electronic EHR that displays dynamic changes in the patient's health information, such as labs and new orders, and allows nurse learners to document medication administration.

2. Medication Dispensing Systems: 

Medication dispensing systems are technologies used in hospitals and other healthcare facilities to automate the process of dispensing medications to patients. These systems provide secure storage of medications and electronic usage tracking, which helps healthcare providers ensure patient safety, improve efficiency, and reduce errors in medication delivery. These systems use barcode scanning and other technologies to ensure patients receive the correct medication and dosage.

UbiSim: Learners can access a medication dispensing system (patient-specific medication drawer within the virtual environment) to practice.

3. Smart IV Pumps 

Smart IV pumps are medical devices that deliver fluids, such as medications and nutrients, into a patient's body in a controlled and precise manner through IV. Smart IV pumps are an important tool in modern healthcare and are widely used in hospitals and other medical settings. These pumps have features such as drug libraries, profiles of care areas, and soft and hard limits that can help prevent medication errors. 

UbiSim: Our smart IV pumps are getting smarter — as learners can access a rate and volume to be infused [VTBI] capability to get a feel for what it’s like in real life. 

4. Nurse Training With Immersive VR Simulation

UbiSim’s immersive virtual reality (VR) simulations are a helpful technology for nursing students because they provide a safe and controlled environment for students to practice clinical skills and procedures without putting patients at risk. Our VR simulations allow students to repeat procedures and practice as much as they need to until they master the skill, which can help build their confidence and competence and reduce errors. VR simulations offer an immersive and interactive learning experience that engages students and encourages them to think critically and problem-solve. 

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At UbiSim, our mission is to make immersive virtual reality practical and useful for nursing education. We aim for our technology to bridge the gap between knowledge and application. Contact us for a free demo today!