Trends in the Application of Telehealth in Pediatric Medication Management: Roles and Challenges of Professional Nurses in Primary Care – An Integrative Review
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Digital transformation and communication innovations have propelled the worldwide adoption of telehealth services, enhancing healthcare accessibility. Pediatric medication management, however, remains a vulnerable area due to children’s higher risk of medication errors compared to adults. Primary care nurses play a central role in promoting safe medication use, yet they face resource limitations and challenges in community follow-up.
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the role of primary care nurses in implementing telehealth for pediatric medication management, analyze trends in its adoption, identify challenges, and synthesize policy recommendations to improve effectiveness and medication safety.
METHODS: An integrative review was conducted using Whittemore and Knafl’s framework. Literature was retrieved from both international and Thai databases between 2020 and 2025, with quality appraisal guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) criteria. A total of 15 eligible articles were included, encompassing quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies.
RESULTS: Telehealth applications were classified into teleconsultation, telemonitoring, and telepharmacy. These approaches reduced medication errors, improved treatment adherence, and supported the management of chronic diseases in children. Telehealth also enhanced nurses’ digital competencies and professional roles. However challenges remained in infrastructure, data security, and caregiver readiness.
CONCLUSIONS: Telehealth has excellent potential for pediatric medication management by reducing errors, improving quality of life, and strengthening the role of primary care nurses. Achieving sustainable implementation requires investing in infrastructure, establishing legal standards, and developing digital skills among healthcare providers and caregivers.
Thaiclinicaltrials.org number, TCTR20251225002
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