Digital Disruption in Nursing: The Nurse Leader’s Role

No one can deny that nursing is undergoing a digital disruption that will shift how we deliver care and lead our teams. Even though nurse leaders are struggling with our version of the great resignation, are the frontline defenders for the global pandemic, and have massive amounts of big data, we are not able to use data or embrace technology to make meaningful changes in our practice or in the delivery of care to patients. Nurse leaders are challenged with effectively using digital technologies so we can change how we practice nursing.

If we, nurse leaders are not able to remove the obstacles to allow digital technology into our structures and processes, our patients could suffer harm. But most importantly, our nurses could be hindered from effectively practicing in the profession that they know so well.

Are there solutions that could reduce the digital disruption struggle of nurse leaders? I propose 3 ideas, (of course there are more), that could help nurse leaders incorporate the use of digital technology into nursing practice.

First, learn as much as you can about digital technology by attending conferences. Why, because most conferences will have displays that will allow you to fully investigate each possibility. When having conversations with representatives, consider framing your questions using why, what, who, how, where, and when. Why is digital integration needed? What is it? What are the benefits? What is the cost? Who will use it? How does the technology work? Where could the technology be used? Does the technology fit multiple settings? When is the expected implementation timeframe?

Second, find and engage the right stakeholders. Early in the process, stakeholders can give you specific feedback to find practice gaps. Stakeholders can serve as ‘marketing’ agents and resource experts who can involve others in the decision-making process, and they can function as the ‘cheerleaders’ when the technology is implemented. Utilizing stakeholders can aid with solidifying the vital mindset shift that occurs with any change.

Finally, create realistic metrics that can show success or a lack of success. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) that will allow you to clearly know that you reached your desired outcome? Make sure the outcomes focus on the ‘so what’ and clearly answer the, what is the effect that occurred because of the implementation of the technology question.

Digital technology is already a part of our everyday lives, therefore, nurse leaders cannot ‘shy’ away from understanding how we can embrace digital technology in our practice settings. We cannot close our ‘eyes’ and not use data to drive practice decisions. Our nurses and our patients deserve to have processes that are not only effective, but also efficient.