Challenges and Strategies in Managing Chronic Diseases: Perspectives of Nursing Technicians

Abstract

Chronic diseases represent one of the most imperative challenges facing healthcare systems worldwide, given their wide prevalence among millions, which requires not only constant but also long-term management. The diseases concerned include diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. These are ailments usually needing a multifaceted approach in their care. Nursing technicians are one of these health teams that are always at the front line, managing these conditions by working closely with the patients through monitoring their health, educating them, and observing the adherence to the treatment plans. However, due to issues relating to resource limitations, high volumes of patients, inadequate training, and complexities associated with coordinated care across multiple healthcare providers, management of chronic diseases still remains a big challenge among nursing technicians. This, when trying to manage different chronic conditions at the same time, could mean burnout and stress to the nursing technicians, thereby making their delivery less than optimal. These are discussed in the review, which further looks into some strategies employed by nursing technicians in an attempt to attempt the challenge of overcoming these. The other strategies discussed here as essential tools in the effort to improve chronic disease management are team collaboration, effective communication, patient education, and use of technology. Besides that, the review prioritizes continuous professional growth and training to equip nursing technicians with certain skills to help handle complicated cases. Since there are so many obstacles to be overcome by nursing technicians, the strategy to be adopted by them in such situations will contribute to developing policies and programs with an aim to support these professionals in healthcare organizations, which would ensure improved outcomes for patients and further ensure quality care for those suffering from chronic diseases. This review provides an overview of the current situation regarding chronic diseases from a nursing technician perspective and presents recommendations on future development in the field.