Internet and Electronic Technologies in My Nursing Profession

I am very grateful that nursing informatics provides me an opportunity to enhance my advancements of my nursing profession. Today, I realized the value of information technology in the community. I no longer considered myself to be novice in the world of computer technology. I was able to uplift my level of computer literacy that helps me achieve an easy transition to the adaptation and enhancement of electronic health record system in my workplace, online school technologies such as web-based library, blackboard system and the effective use of social media. Access to information has been made fast and easy in this modern world. Informatics provides an easy access to information which is important in the enrichment of the nursing knowledge and clinical competence needed to deliver the best possible care for the patients and the community as a whole. I realized today that nursing informatics is the key to be a successful nurse practitioner. I will continue to explore more educational opportunities using informatics to guide me in the advancement of my nursing profession.

Defibrillator Brings Back Lives!

Defibrillators definitely saves lives. Today, I was able to witnessed sudden cardiac arrest patient revived by singe innovative technology- external defibrillator. The emergency team leader connected the patient to the heart monitor and noted a cardiac fibrillation. After confirming the lethal rhythm, an electric shock was administered and eventually a normal sinus rhythm was restored.

Advancement of technology is important to meet the increasingly evolving nursing challenges in this modern world. The proper use of innovative technologies like defibrillators is vital in saving human lives. Adequate maintenance keeps defibrillators is proper working condition. Providing public education regarding the effective use of defibrillators in heavily populated commercial areas will make a positive impact in preventing death by sudden cardiac arrest.

Spectra Link Keeps Me Connected!

Spectra link system uses spectra phone that keeps me connected within my workplace. This wireless phone unit allows me to place a call and receive phone calls. communication is important in our nursing department and so every worker is encouraged to carry a unit. Some find it inconvenient to carry a spectra phone but for me, I see it as a necessity. Just like what I experienced today when my patient experienced a deteriorating status. I was able to utilize my spectra phone calling directly rapid response team, calling the laboratory, radiology, respiratory personnels as well as the primary care physician for emergency evaluation and management. Emergency calls can be enhanced through spectra link system. Keeping spectra phone in good working condition certainly makes a difference in our nursing department.

My Workday Without Pyxis

I first experienced my workday without the automated medication management. The pyxis medstation was done in the whole department that created an overwhelming situation to patients, management and especially to nursing staffs. I was able to distribute the medications on time such as antibiotics and some pain medications. The situation causes confusion and chaos for nurses.

I realized today the value of this innovative technology- Pyxis MedStation System in my nursing profession. There is a big difference in the nursing practice without it. Not having an automated medication dispenser significantly affects the quality of nursing service in today's health care. The pyxis system provides fast and accurate dispensing of medications. The system eliminates significant medication errors in my workplace. Proper use of this pyxis medstation system is vital in dispensing safely prescribed medications.

Pneumatic Tube System Delivers Really Fast!

Today, I realized the significance of using the pneumatic tube system. I was able to send blood sample to the hospital's laboratory in a touch of a button. Inter-hospital delivery system has been made simple, fast and easy nowadays. Sending medications, supplies and other materials to different locations in the hospital with designated destination number is made possible through the use of pneumatic tube system. The AC 3000 technology is a specialized method of delivery that involves a special carrier that can be shoot through a tube system using an air-tight vacuum. The system is able to send and received materials across the hospital departments. A built-in directory is listed in the panel. Simple and easy steps are need to follow for sending out. First thing to do is to place the item in the special carrier. The carrier is then inserted in lunch pad and a number key specific to the destination can be dialed. Automatically, the pneumatic tube system delivers the canister in a matter of seconds. Proper maintenance is needed to maintain the system in good working condition. A quarterly system check is recommended and followed in the workplace. The use of this system enhances the quality of patient outcome because laboratory samples, medications, and other supplies can be delivered in a safe and

timely manner.

Insulin Pump Works!

I am currently taking care of an interesting patient who uses insulin pump. It is such a small device like the size of a pager which my patient carries in his pocket.I find it amazing technological innovation. The patient is able to check his own blood glucose level and the result is reflected automatically in the insulin pump monitor through interface. Based on my patient's meal intake, a specific amount of carbohydrate is then inputted and the pump automatically calculates specific units of insulin to be administered. The system involves an insulin reservoir with computer operated control chamber connected to a specialized infusion set. The machine is compact

and can be easily operated. Self-management of diabetes is widely encouraged nowadays. Patients are empowered more than ever to self-monitor blood sugar. Insulin pump provides a golden opportunity for patients' to personally manage diabetes and control their own blood glucose level. This technological innovation delivers safety and convenience in managing diabetes for both the patient and the nurse as well. Fast and accurate glucometer result is made possible. I realized that administration of insulin has been made easy and convenient. I recognized the need to emphasize adequate patient education in using insulin pump because this is patient controlled insulin administration. Severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can occur if correct procedure is not followed. Proper maintenance to keep the pump in good working condition such as regular battery replacement is vital to maintain the effectiveness of using insulin pump. Insulin pump is one great tool to control increasing number of diabetes nationally and internationally.

Digital Thermometers Tell Body Temperatures

There are several thermometers in the market today. People use thermometers according to preference. Different patient uses different kinds of thermometer such as axillary, oral, and rectal. The use specific kind of thermometer with its appropriate approach helps get correct results. I am using a one of a kind digital thermometer today wherein just a simple slide of the thermometer's sensor on the patients forehead will instantly gives an accurate temperature reading. Advancements in technology is continuously increasing. Thermometers are now digital. The old fashioned mercury thermometers are no longer for public use because of safety issue in lead exposure. I remember well the way we use mercury thermometers before. It took a lot of effort shaking the mercury down and disinfecting after each patient use with alcohol. I broke a lot of thermometers in front of my patients back then and it was really unsafe. In this modern days of innovation, the use of thermometer has never been this simple. Getting patients temperature while providing safety has been made easy with the use of digital thermometers. Just a scan to patients forehead will provide accurate temperature readings. I am grateful for this technological advancement that help nurse in variety of ways.