Abstract
An exploratory qualitative study examined nurses' attitudes and readiness to integrate digital technologies into their healthcare practices within a South African private hospital group. Understanding the perspectives and readiness of nursing professionals in this context is crucial due to the ongoing developments in the healthcare sector, characterised by digitisation.
This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of nurses' experiences, perceptions, and concerns related to healthcare digitisation based on in-depth interviews and thematic analysis. Researchers have interviewed nurses and found that they recognise the potential benefits of digitisation, including enhanced record-keeping, streamlined communication, and improved patient care. There are, however, several factors which contribute to their readiness to embrace these changes. Based on the data, several challenges emerge, including technology access and limited infrastructure. Data security and privacy concerns also pose significant barriers to widespread adoption. Furthermore, nurses expressed apprehension about potential re-skilling and the impact on the nurse-patient relationship.
This study sheds light on the multi-faceted nature of nurses' attitudes and readiness towards digitisation, emphasising the importance of targeted interventions to bridge knowledge gaps and create a supportive environment for digital healthcare integration. The research findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of nursing professionals in driving the successful implementation of digital healthcare solutions in South African private hospitals.
The insights gained from this study have the potential to inform healthcare policies, educational programs, and workplace practices, ultimately facilitating the effective incorporation of digital technologies into the healthcare sector while addressing the concerns and needs of the nursing workforce.