Exploring ICU Nurses' Perceptions of Tele-ICU Practice: Opportunities, Challenges and Recommendations for Implementation in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Tele-ICU has emerged as a vital component of modern health care, enabling remote monitoring and management of critically ill patients. Even though its use is expanding internationally, there are still issues with acceptance, infrastructure and training, especially in developing health care systems such as Saudi Arabia.

AIM

This study explores intensive care unit (ICU) nurses' perceptions of Tele-ICU practice in Saudi Arabia, focusing on their qualifications, experiences and the challenges and opportunities of this evolving model of care.

STUDY DESIGN

A qualitative exploratory design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 ICU nurses working in a prominent health care network in Saudi Arabia. Thematic analysis was performed to identify key themes and subthemes related to Tele-ICU nursing practice.

RESULTS

Participants highlighted several factors impacting Tele-ICU practice, including a lack of standardized training, technological challenges and financial constraints. Despite these challenges, many participants viewed Tele-ICU as a less physically demanding alternative to bedside ICU nursing. They emphasized the need for formal Tele-ICU certifications, improved technological infrastructure and organizational support. Concerns regarding role clarity, career progression and legal accountability were also noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurses in Saudi Arabia demonstrated a variety of factors that could impact adopting Tele-ICU as a standard practice. Addressing gaps in training, infrastructure and policy could improve its adoption and sustainability, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes and nurse satisfaction.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Tele-ICU offers significant potential to enhance critical care delivery in Saudi Arabia.