Human/Technology Interface

Human/Technology Interface: 
There is much to be said about the human/technology interface in healthcare. Human Technology Interface (HTI) or Human Computer Interface (HCI) is the way in which humans work with or interact with technology. Does it help or does it hurt?  There is great relevance to nursing practice, patient care, and nursing leadership.  Each of these areas must be carefully monitored on a regular basis to make sure that healthcare is not falling short, and instead giving patients and staff the best possible experience each and every day. 

One of the main concerns is that there is a psychological aspect to the use of computer technology by healthcare workers.  They are often are in a hurry and worry about the time that is spent at the bed side.  This can lead to "work-arounds" where those using technology find ways to make using technology easier.  This may or may not follow policy and protocol, based on interpretation, but the fact remains that there are standards in place that ensure safety and reduce errors.  Proper education and resources need to be made available so that there is a system in place to address issues that humans have when using technology, and in this way, they can make sure that standards are met. 

Technology makes for information to be more easily shared, and this allows for greater communication, collaboration, and consistency in plan of care for a patient.  However, it is necessary that privacy and confidentiality standards are maintained otherwise problems can occur when a healthcare provider (nurse, tech, physician, etc.) are being stretched to the limit with increased responsibilities.  Additionally healthcare workers often work long hours, and getting up from a computer to try and multi-task can lead to breaches.

Healthcare workers and their technology literacy need to be addressed on an ongoing basis.  As nurse leaders we want our staff to work smarter, not harder.  Efficiency of technology systems are key to successful care of patients. The time spent documenting has to be creatively handled so that patients feel like they are interacting with a human and not the technology.  Patients need to feel that they are cared about, and that compassion is still at the forefront of the patient care that is provided. There is a fine balance of still being able to be excellent at time management, prioritization, critical thinking, and communication.  The interface should enhance care, not take it over.  In this way there will be higher quality care and the best outcomes possible. 

There are many examples of human technology interface in healthcare and nursing.  Electronic medical records and bar coding systems for medication allow for human/technology interface.

Challenges and opportunities to human technology interface allow for amazing possibilities.  As technology advances, so must we.  Changes in workflow, the need to adjust the way things have always been, learning, and adapting to a technological world are necessary.  Processes and quality can be improved through the way humans interact with technology. Safety and the reduction of errors impacts are two other great results of the human/technology influence.  All of these advantages result in direct impact nursing practice, patient care, and nursing leadership.