Possible Applications and Conditions for the Development and Integration of Robotic Assistance Systems in the Acute Inpatient Setting from the Perspective of Nursing Professionals: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Robotic assistance systems are considered a promising approach to addressing nursing staff shortages and improving the quality of care in acute inpatient settings. Successful implementation requires not only the definition of practical application scenarios, but also the systematic identification of facilitating and hindering factors for real-world integration. The objective of this study was to explore nursing staff’s perspectives on the potential application of robotic assistance systems in clinical settings. In a qualitative cross-sectional study, 12 individuals involved in nursing care were interviewed using a semi-structured guide. The questions focused on potential applications and areas of use for robotic assistance systems in acute care settings. The data were analyzed using structuring qualitative content analysis. From the perspective of nursing staff, robotic assistance systems have the potential to add value to acute clinical care. They can be used in various ways, such as transporting materials, meals, and beverages, or supporting nursing staff in prophylactic measures and vital sign monitoring. Additional applications include organizational tasks and documentation. Potential areas of deployment were identified, including surgery, urology, and isolation units. Furthermore, spatial, personnel, organizational, and technological conditions for the development and integration of robotic assistance systems were outlined. The development and implementation of robotic assistance systems in clinical settings are complex undertakings. Institutional and technical conditions must be considered alongside person-centered factors. A user- and benefit-oriented approach to technology development can only succeed if user perspectives are consistently integrated throughout all phases of development, testing, and implementation.