Enhancing Patient Care Through Technology in Nursing Practice: Basis for Quality Policy Enhancement

Integrating advanced healthcare technology into nursing practice is a critical driver of improved clinical outcomes and patient safety in modern healthcare. This study examined the integration of advanced healthcare technology into nursing practice as a basis for enhancing quality policy in a provincial hospital in Marinduque. Specifically, it assessed the demographic profile of staff nurses, their levels of competence in skills, knowledge, and values, the common challenges encountered when utilizing technological systems in patient care, and the significant relationship between competencies and challenges. Anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the philosophy of pragmatism, the study employed a descriptive-correlational research design using a validated questionnaire to assess competencies and challenges. Findings revealed that staff nurses demonstrate a high level of competency, particularly in operating digital medical devices and understanding cybersecurity protocols, while exhibiting strong professional values toward patient safety. However, significant institutional challenges persist, notably frequent equipment downtime and training gaps involving limited hands-on simulation. Correlation analysis indicated that while individual skills and knowledge mitigate technical competency difficulties, they do not significantly influence system-driven issues like cybersecurity risks or equipment failures, which remain largely institutional. Consequently, a Quality Policy Enhancement Framework was developed, focusing on strengthening digital infrastructure, implementing simulation-based training and enhancing cybersecurity governance. The study concludes that while staff nurses are highly competent and positively inclined toward healthcare technology, effective integration requires stronger institutional support, resource allocation, and continuous professional development to fully optimize technology-enhanced nursing care.