Cloud-based technology improves the nursing profession

The nursing profession has evolved tremendously in the digital age thanks to advances in information technology. Nurses often utilize portable tablets or laptops when visiting patients in hospitals, nursing homes and private residences. Such devices are used to access portals containing medical records and other important information about patients. Cloud-based technology improves the nursing profession.

There is no need for nurses to download large files or applications onto memory cards, flash drives or hard drives. Any Internet-enabled devices can be used to log into secure networks that contain a wealth of information for dealing with patients. For instance, nurses could communicate with a patient's health insurance provider and pharmacy through the Internet. It is less likely that patients need to come up with paper lists of medications and other prescriptions. Information technology training is essential in any registered nurse curriculum.

Health care professionals must be able to use the latest applications and software in hospital settings. Portable nursing stations usually feature laptop computers and wireless bar code scanners. Both types of devices are synced to central databases within a hospital. Different departments in a hospital must share data with each other efficiently. For example, the X-ray imaging unit can quickly upload results that could be read by a nurse or physician stationed in another department. Similarly, other diagnostic tests are also posted onto central databases accessible only to healthcare workers in a hospital.

A registered nurse can upgrade existing qualifications into a Master of Science in Nursing. An RN to MSN online program is available at accredited universities such as the University of Arizona, which offer various studies in nursing, healthcare, medicine and natural science. Online courses for nursing are combined with onsite laboratory sessions. For instance, students must complete practicals in hospitals and clinics full of actual patients. Hands-on experience is essential towards mastering the most advanced levels of nursing. For instance, students pursuing MSN degrees might be shown how to use complicated life-saving apparatus in critical care units and emergency rooms. The management of dialysis machines is another component of advanced studies in nursing.

Pharmacology is a significant part of an advanced nursing degree. Nurses must be familiar with generic and brand name medication that is prescribed to patients in hospitals and other medical facilities. Precise control of drug administration is also mastered in an MSN course of study. Nurses might learn how to use digital gauges to administer accurate doses.