Nurses' perceptions of virtual consultations and home-monitoring in patients with cardiac disease: a qualitative meta-synthesis

Objective This study aims to investigate the facilitators and barriers perceived by nurses in utilizing video-consultations supported by home-monitoring for patients with cardiac disease. Methodology A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science for qualitative data published in English, Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish between 2013-2023. Ten studies were included in the qualitative synthesis using Braun and Clarke's methodology. Findings From the qualitative meta-synthesis, a main theme emerged: Nurses’ uncertainty toward telemedicine is a risk toward the use of video-consultations and home-monitoring The findings spans from nurses' positive encounters to their frustrations with the implementation process and the inadequate technical support for both clinicians and patients. Nurses frequently experienced frustration and uncertainty regarding the quality of care delivered through virtual consultations. Conclusion The successful implementation of video-consultations and home-monitoring necessitates a focus on the specific context in which they are applied, considering the perspectives of both patients and nurses. Additionally, active involvement of nurses, leveraging their clinical expertise, is crucial for the effective integration of these technologies.