Effective factors for the adoption of IoT applications in nursing care: A theoretical framework for smart healthcare

Abstract

The utilization of the Internet of Things (IoT) presents a promising opportunity for the healthcare industry which is continuously expanding and persistently aspiring to enhance the quality of medical services and reduce its operational costs through the implementation of new technologies. Despite the proven benefits of utilizing IoT-based technologies, its integration in the healthcare sector is minimal, particularly in nursing care. The purpose of this study is to establish a conceptual model to guide program designers and implementation leaders in evaluating the adoption of IoT products and services in nursing care, from the perspective of nurses. The study employed an empirical quantitative research design utilizing a structured online questionnaire to collect data from a convenience sample of nursing staff gathered data were subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). Data analysis led to the establishment of a framework to identify factors influencing the integration of IoT and barriers that may impede its adoption in nursing care. The study makes a valuable contribution to academia by addressing a gap in the existing literature relating to the adoption of IoT in medical services, particularly in nursing care, and providing a novel theoretical framework that encompasses effective factors for the integration of IoT in medical care. This model provides deep insight and guidance to healthcare industry leaders, system developers, and nursing professionals to improve program design and implementation of IoT applications in healthcare. In addition, the model guides building engineering in the planning and design of medical facilities aligned with the IoT technologies and its physical environment. Finally, the study paved the way for further research exploring the implementation of IoT-based technologies and expanding the model to other stakeholders and functions within medical departments as well as other industries.