Exploring Robotic Nursing: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Socially Assistive Robots within the Healthcare Professions.

Abstract

<h4>Purpose</h4>The objective is to evaluate empirical literature on Socially Assistive Robots (SARs) in nursing, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and avenues for future research and practice. This article explores studies investigating robotic applications in healthcare, specifically nursing.<h4>Design</h4>The systematic review using PRISMA guidelines includes 19 relevant studies from Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane, presenting insights into the potential of SARs in addressing patients' mental health and well-being.<h4>Methods</h4>The eligibility criteria for this review included publications from 2015 to 2024, full-text articles employing either qualitative or quantitative methodologies, articles written in English, and those published in peer-reviewed academic journals. Excluded were single-case studies, unpublished theses or dissertations, and studies not published in peer-reviewed journals. The search employed the terms "robotic nursing" and "future," utilizing Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terminology for precise retrieval.<h4>Findings</h4>The current literature has limitations in generalizability, breadth, and quantification of health-related outcomes. Areas of exploration, including diverse robot types, therapies, and geographical contexts, offer promising directions for future research.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The article concludes that although SARs show promise in healthcare, particularly in nursing, more comprehensive research is needed to establish their efficacy across a wider range of applications and settings.<h4>Clinical evidence</h4>Current studies indicate that SARs may play a valuable role in supporting patients' mental health and well-being, though further investigation is required to determine their broader impact and effectiveness.