Unlocking Your Nursing Career: Novant Health Nurse Shares Game-Changing Technologies

Panissa Caldwell, an experienced nurse and educator, sees technology playing a big role in nursing today. As the director of clinical services at Novant Health, she understands what skills nurses need to succeed and how tech can help them at every step—from training to ongoing education.

Nursing programs are now incorporating technology into their teaching. Caldwell highlights that with telehealth and electronic health records becoming the norm, students learn to use digital tools essential for today’s healthcare. “Nursing students now practice with high-fidelity simulators,” she explains. These advanced labs give students a chance to hone their skills in a safe environment, preparing them for real clinical settings.

Not only do students gain practical experience, but hospitals are also using tech to tackle issues like high nurse turnover. A recent survey by Press Ganey found that many nurses feel overwhelmed, highlighting the need for support in their roles.

“Nurses face many challenges,” Caldwell says, “but technology can ease some of that burden.” Tools like telehealth are not only helping patients but also allowing new nurses to learn from remote consultations. Caldwell believes that artificial intelligence (AI) holds even more promise. “Doctors are leading the way in using AI, especially for documentation,” she shares. “However, I think nurses will soon be able to utilize AI to streamline their workflows, enhance patient experience, and improve training.” For example, AI could help patients complete everyday tasks, giving nurses more time and energy for direct care.

AI is also reshaping nursing education. Caldwell points out that educators can use AI tools to analyze patient data and teach students about potential health risks. Some programs even use AI chatbots to simulate patient interactions, allowing students to practice their communication and decision-making skills.

Beyond tech, mentorship plays a crucial role in supporting new nurses. Caldwell is a strong advocate for mentorship, saying it helps new nurses gain confidence and clarity. She shares an inspiring example of Elleton ‘Mickey’ McCullough, a retired nurse who has guided many younger nurses over the years.

To foster effective mentor-mentee relationships, Caldwell suggests pairing new nurses with experienced mentors who provide support and share best practices. “Consider involving retired nurses as well. This ‘phone a friend’ concept can be beneficial for both parties,” she explains. New nurses gain valuable advice, while retirees can share their wealth of knowledge accumulated over decades.

As technology continues to evolve, it’s changing how nurses are trained and supported in their roles. Embracing these advancements could lead to a more efficient and fulfilling nursing profession.

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