A systematic review of nurses' perspectives toward the telemedicine intensive care unit : a basis for supporting its future implementation in China?

Aim: The purpose of this systematic review is to critique and summarize existing research on intensive care unit (ICU) nurses' perspectives toward the telemedicine intensive care unit (Tele-ICU). The intention of this study is to explore the evidence base to support the potential future implementation of Tele-ICU program in China. Methods: We searched for published articles pertaining to Tele-ICU system with a centralized monitoring model between January 2000 and July 2017 using Cochrane Library, Academic Search Premier, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, British Education Index, MEDLINE, MLA International Bibliography, and Web of Science. Studies were coded by methodology, participants, and findings. The textual narrative synthesis method was applied to synthesize the outcomes. Results: Findings were categorized as follows: perceptions of the Tele-ICU (including the role of Tele-ICU, benefits for nurses, patients, and management); attitudes of Tele-ICU (usefulness and challenges of Tele-ICU); level of satisfaction; factors affecting acceptance of Tele-ICU. Discussion: This review has synthesized significant factors influencing optimal usage of Tele-ICU from nurses' perspectives. Also, it might make a better case for findings to support Tele-ICU future implementation into Chinese tertiary hospitals