Panissa Caldwell, RN, a director of clinical services at Novant Health, emphasizes how technology is reshaping the nursing profession. With her extensive experience as both a clinician and educator, she recognizes the essential skills nurses need today and the role technology plays in supporting their development.

Integration of Technology in Nursing Education

Caldwell notes that nursing programs are now incorporating technology into their curricula:

• Training on electronic health records (EHR) and telehealth platforms is essential for modern healthcare.
• Advanced simulation labs provide hands-on experience in a safe environment, allowing students to practice clinical skills without risk to patients.
• Students gain confidence and familiarity with hospital technologies before entering clinical settings.

Addressing Challenges with Technology

Caldwell acknowledges the challenges nurses face today, including high turnover rates and feelings of being overwhelmed. However, she believes technology can alleviate some of these burdens:

• Telehealth expands learning opportunities for novice nurses, enabling them to observe and participate in remote consultations.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to enhance nursing workflows and improve patient experiences.
• AI can assist patients in regaining independence through voice recognition technology for everyday tasks.

AI’s Role in Nursing Education

In the classroom, AI tools can:

• Analyze patient data to identify health risks, enhancing students’ analytical skills.
• Utilize AI-driven chatbots to simulate patient interactions, helping students practice communication and decision-making.
• Support clinical decision-making, leading to better patient assessments and treatment plans.

The Importance of Mentorship

Caldwell is a strong advocate for mentorship in nursing:

• Mentors help new nurses gain confidence and understand the broader picture of their roles.
• She shares the inspiring story of Elleton ‘Mickey’ McCullough, a retired nurse who has mentored many generations.
• Pairing novice nurses with experienced mentors can facilitate knowledge sharing and guidance on navigating new technologies.
• Engaging retired nurses as mentors can provide valuable insights and support for newer nurses.

Caldwell concludes that fostering mentorship and leveraging technology are key to nurturing the next generation of nurses.

For more insights, follow Bill Siwicki on LinkedIn: Bill Siwicki
Email: bsiwicki@himss.org
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