Surgical Robotics And Nurse Assisted Robotic Care Integration And Implications In OT Practice

Abstract

The rapid evolution of surgical robotics and nurse-assisted robotic care is transforming operating theatre (OT) practices by enhancing precision, improving workflow efficiency, and strengthening patient safety. Robotic systems such as the da Vinci platform and multimodal robotic scrub nurses now assist surgeons by facilitating instrument handling, reducing operative time, and minimizing communication errors. As these technologies expand, the role of nurses has become increasingly crucial across all perioperative phases. Pre-operatively, nurses ensure accurate patient positioning, equipment compatibility, and readiness of robotic components. During surgery, they assist with system setup, instrument calibration, tool exchange, and continuous monitoring of patient safety. Post-operatively, nurses play a vital role in assessing recovery, identifying complications, and ensuring effective transitions of care. The integration of robotics in OT practice requires significant workflow adaptation, specialized training, and strong multidisciplinary collaboration. However, challenges persist, including high costs, resistance to change, learning curves, and limitations in current robotic systems. Ethical and legal concerns also arise regarding accountability, workload burden, and the need for regulatory clarity in defining nursing responsibilities. Despite these challenges, robotics offers opportunities for innovation, including advanced automation, AI-driven decision support, and expanded nursing roles in managing robotic systems. Ongoing research, evidence-based practice, and structured education are essential for safe and effective implementation.In conclusion, robotic-assisted surgical care holds promise for improving surgical outcomes and enhancing the nursing contribution in high-tech environments. Clear policies, focused training, and ethical integration are necessary to ensure that technology complements, rather than replaces, the core human elements of nursing care.