Digitalization of Nursing: Challenges and Prospects in Russia

This article analyzes and evaluates a key aspect of healthcare, fundamentally changing all aspects of medical practice: the digital transformation of nursing, a key component of the healthcare system. In Russia, this process has specific characteristics due to the country’s size, regional development disparities, the state of the IT infrastructure, and the level of digital competencies of nursing staff. The objective of the study is to analyze the key challenges and prospects for the digitalization of nursing in the Russian Federation and assess the system’s readiness and human resources for the integration of digital technologies. An analysis of current scientific sources in this area, regulatory documents, and industry statistics was conducted. The key challenges of digitalization for nursing staff in Russia were identified: a lack of digital competencies; the risk of increased administrative burden, which may distract from direct patient care; issues with technical equipment and unequal access to digital resources across regions; and issues of patient data confidentiality. Significant opportunities were also identified: improving the quality and safety of care through the use of telemedicine consultations, decision support systems, and electronic document management; Optimization of working hours through automation; new opportunities for remote patient monitoring (telemonitoring of chronic patients); development of continuous distance education; strengthening the analytical and research functions of nursing practice. The author concluded that the digitalization of nursing in Russia is inevitable, requiring a balanced, systematic approach. Success will depend on addressing technological, personnel, and organizational challenges. Factors facilitating these processes may include mandatory improvements not only in digital literacy but also in the digital culture of nursing staff through a system of continuing professional education; modernization of the IT infrastructure of healthcare institutions; adaptation of work processes with an emphasis on the supporting, rather than replacing, role of technology; and the development of domestic digital solutions focused on the needs of nursing personnel. The digital transformation of nursing will contribute to the growing prestige of the nursing profession and improved patient health and satisfaction.

digitalization of healthcare, nursing, digital competencies, medical information systems, telemedicine

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