Telemedicine Utilization Among Nurses in the UAE: Adoption, Training, and Infrastructure Readiness.

Abstract

Background: Telemedicine (TM) is a crucial component of modern health care, yet its adoption in nursing remains suboptimal. Effective integration requires structured training, institutional support, and digital infrastructure. Purpose: This study investigates TM utilization among nurses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), focusing on its integration into practice, the training received, and the resources available to support its implementation. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 434 nurses across hospitals and clinics in Dubai Health, UAE. The survey assessed demographic and professional details, TM experience, training availability, infrastructure, and institutional support. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: While 70% of nurses reported TM availability, only 27% actively used it. Usage frequency varied, with 18% utilizing TM daily, 8% weekly, and 10% monthly. Adoption was highest in pediatric and geriatric care (50%) and lowest in intensive care units (11%). Remote patient monitoring and health education (47%) were the most common applications, whereas specialty consultations had the lowest use (17%). Logistic regression identified TM availability (OR = 2.1) and prior training (OR = 3.0) as key predictors of utilization (p < 0.001). However, only 14% of participating nurses had received formal TM training, though 90% expressed willingness to participate in future programs. Nurses' demographics, job titles, years of experience, and health sector did not significantly predict TM utilization (p > 0.05). Conclusion: TM has the potential to transform nursing practice, but its integration requires enhanced training programs, infrastructure investment, and institutional support. Addressing these gaps will optimize TM utilization and improve health care delivery.