The Nurse-Engineer: Pioneering a New Role to Enhance Technology Integration and Innovate Patient Care Devices

Hajar Demashiq Eidah Al Demashiq; Fatimah Salman Juman Alabyad; Wasmyah Mabkhoot Al Hashem; Hanan Demshiq Eidah Al Demshiq; Nadyah Saqier Mobark Altawfiq; Ibtisam Salem Alyami; Hassan Saleh Hassan Alyami; Namah Mabkhoot Saed Alhashim

doi:10.63278/10.63278/mme.v31.1

Authors

Hajar Demashiq Eidah Al Demashiq Midwife, Algabel Phcc, Saudi Arabia
Fatimah Salman Juman Alabyad Nursing Technicain, Alkhldiyah Najran Health Care Center, Saudi Arabia
Wasmyah Mabkhoot Al Hashem Nursing Technician, Al Safa Phcc, Saudi Arabia
Hanan Demshiq Eidah Al Demshiq Nursing Technician, Aldhoubat Phcc, Saudi Arabia
Nadyah Saqier Mobark Altawfiq Midwife, Maternity and Children's Hospital in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
Ibtisam Salem Alyami Nursing Technician, Aldhoubat Phcc, Saudi Arabia
Hassan Saleh Hassan Alyami Healthy Assistant, Aldhiyafah Phcc, Saudi Arabia
Namah Mabkhoot Saed Alhashim Nursing Technication, Almofjah Phcc, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63278/10.63278/mme.v31.1

Keywords:

Nurse-Engineer Collaboration, Healthcare Technology Innovation, Interdisciplinary Healthcare Integration.

Abstract

The integration of nursing and engineering has the potential to drive significant improvements in patient care and healthcare systems. With the increasing complexity of healthcare, driven by advancements in technology, there is a growing need for professionals who can bridge the gap between clinical care and technological innovation. This paper explores the concept of the "nurse-engineer," a new professional role designed to leverage the expertise of both nurses and engineers to address healthcare challenges through technology. It examines the history and evolution of biomedical and systems engineering in healthcare, highlighting successful collaborations between nurses and engineers. These partnerships have led to the development of innovative healthcare technologies, such as telerobotic nursing assistants and assistive devices for patients with disabilities. The paper also discusses existing interdisciplinary programs, including joint nursing-engineering degree initiatives, and outlines the benefits of such collaborations in enhancing patient outcomes and improving healthcare efficiency. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of incorporating nurses' clinical insights into the design and implementation of healthcare technologies, ensuring that innovations are both effective and patient-centered. By fostering collaboration between nursing and engineering, the nurse-engineer role has the potential to shape the future of healthcare, creating new opportunities for improved patient care, safety, and technological advancements.

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