Virtual Nursing

Virtual nursing is a practice that uses technology to provide nursing care remotely through video consultations, phone calls, and remote monitoring. While this can improve access to care for patients living in rural or underserved areas, and increase flexibility for nurses, there are also limitations to receiving care without physically interacting with a healthcare provider. Primary challenges include the inability to perform physical assessments or procedures and reduced personal connections between patients and providers.  

While the use of telehealth and telemedicine may be appropriate in certain circumstances, the potential benefits of telemedicine must be measured against the risks and challenges associated with its use, including the absence of the physical examination, variation in state practice and licensing regulations, state malpractice laws, and issues surrounding informed consent and the establishment of the patient–practitioner relationship.

Read NYSNA’s full position statement about telehealth and telemedicine.