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NIMHANS
Telenursing Practice Guidelines
Editors
P.Vijayalakshmi, B.V.Kathyayani, Nirmala M Hatti,
K.Reddemma, Narayana Manjunatha,
C Naveen Kumar & Suresh Bada Math
2020
NIMHANS
Telenursing Practice Guidelines
College of Nursing & Telemedicine Centre
National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences,
(Institute of National Importance)
Bengaluru – 560029
In association with
Telemedicine Society of India
&
Trained Nurses' Association of India
Copyright © NIMHANS, Bengaluru -560029
2020
Editors
Dr. P.Vijayalakshmi, PhD
College of Nursing, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences,
(Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru – 560 029
Email:- pvijayalakshmireddy@gmail.com, vijayalakshmiporeddy@yahoo.co.in
Phone: - 0802699 5818
Dr. B.V.Kathyayani, PhD
Professor & Principal, College of Nursing,
National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences,
(Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru – 560 029
Ms. Nirmala M Hatti, MSc(N)
I/C Head of Clinical Services, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro
Sciences, (Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru – 560 029
Dr.K.Reddemma, PhD
Former Senior Professor& Dean
National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, (Institute of National
Importance) & Nodal Officer, National Consortium for Ph.D in Nursing, St Johns
College of Nursing, Sarjapur Road, Bangalore - 560 034
Dr. Narayana Manjunatha, DPM, MD
Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry,
Consultant, Tele-Medicine Centre, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro
Sciences, (Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru – 560029
Dr. C Naveen Kumar, DPM, MD, MAMS
Professor of Psychiatry, Head, Community Psychiatry Unit,
Consultant, Centre for Disaster Management, Forensic Psychiatry, Legal Aid Clinic &
Tele-Medicine Centre, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health
and Neuro Sciences, (Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru – 560029
Dr. Suresh Bada Math, MD, DNB, PGDMLE, PGDHRL, PhD in Law (NLSIU)
Professor & Head of Forensic Psychiatry Services,
Head of Tele-Medicine Centre and Unit-V (Psychiatry),
Consultant, Community Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry,
National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, (Institute of National
Importance), Bengaluru – 560 029
Published by National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru-560 029
All rights reserved. No part of these guidelines may be reprinted or distributed or utilized in
any form or by any means including photocopying and recording, or in any information storage
or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the authors for commercial purposes.
However, this document may be freely reviewed, freely transmitted, reproduced in part or
whole, purely on non-commercial basis with proper citation. This is not for sale.
First Edition – 2020
Copyright © NIMHANS, Bengaluru-560 029
ISBN: 978-81-948111-9-0
NIMHANS Publication No. 186
Disclaimer: Health information technology is evolving rapidly. This guideline reflects the best
available data at the time this guideline was prepared. While all attempts have been made to
verify the accuracy of the information provided in this guideline, neither the authors nor the
publisher nor any other party who has been involved in the preparation or publication of this
work assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions or for the results. This Telenursing
guideline is drafted to work in sync with Telemedicine Practice guidelines-2020, of the Indian
Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics Regulation, 2002) now under the
NMC Act, 2019
Citation: Vijayalakshmi Poreddi, Kathyayani BV, Nirmala M Hatti, Reddemma K, Narayana
Manjunatha, Naveen Kumar C & Suresh Bada Math (2020). NIMHANS-Telenursing Practice
Guidelines-2020. Pub; NIMHANS, Bengaluru-560 029.
Correspondence:
Dr. P.Vijayalakshmi PhD
College of Nursing, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences,
(Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru – 560 029
Email:- pvijayalakshmireddy@gmail.com, vijayalakshmiporeddy@yahoo.co.in
Phone: - 0802699 5818
Telemedicine Society of India
Telemedicine Society of India HQ
Registered under Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Regd. Office: Room No.303. 2nd Floor, School of Telemedicine & Biomedical Informatics (STBMI)
SGPGIMS, Raibareli Road, Lucknow. Uttar Pradesh-226014. India.
Message
Information and communication technology have led to a global revolution in the healthcare
system. In India, two-thirds of its population predominantly live in a rural area with immense
health care needs. Congruently, India has an acute shortage of health care providers. The
Indian government is committed to strengthening the healthcare system and lays a significant
focus on the use of telemedicine services, especially in the Health and Wellness Centres at
the grassroot level wherein the nurses can connect the patients and their families to the
appropriate health services to receive timely and the best possible care.
Telenursing is an emerging field that uses innovative technologies to improve the standards
of nursing. However, it doesn’t alter the nature of professional practice. Telenursing ensures
that nurses are more ubiquitous and have a greater involvement in primary care. I am glad to
know that the College of Nursing has developed comprehensive guidelines in collaboration
with the Telemedicine Center, Department of Psychiatry, NIMHANS, Bengaluru to offer
practical advice to nursing professionals in India. I am sure that these guidelines provide a
clear direction to the registered nurses to enhance their ability to provide safe, competent,
compassionate and ethical care. However, it is important to note that these guidelines will
require ongoing updates in response to the ever-changing nature of technology.
The Union Health Ministry's eSanjeevani OPD platform has completed five lakh tele-
consultations within six-months since its launch on April 13 with the last one lakh
consultations being done in a record time of 17 days. The eSanjeevani OPD services have
enabled patient-to-doctor telemedicine in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. I appreciate
and congratulate all the stakeholders for their relentless efforts in bringing out these
guidelines. I also look forward to the early and effective implementation by the nurses across
the nation. This tele-nursing guidelines from NIMHANS will be play the catalyst role in
taking the much-needed healthcare to the rural area through Health and Wellness centres
across the country reaching the unreached.
Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Singh (Retd.)
President
Telemedicine Society of India
Contact: Telephone +91 522 2668838, +91 522 2495530
Fax: +91 522 2668893 email: contact@tsi.org.in, hon.secretary.tsi@gmail.com & joint.secy.tsi@gmail.com
Website: www.tsi.org.in
PRESIDENT (2019-2020)
Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Singh
(Retd.)
Rajasthan
IMMEDIATE PAST
PRESIDENT (2019-2020)
Mr. Vimal Wakhlu
New Delhi
PRESIDENT ELECT (2019-2020)
Colonel (Dr) Ashvini Goel (Retd)
New Delhi
VICE PRESIDENT (2019-2020)
Prof. P.K. Pradhan
Uttar Pradesh
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER (COO)
Mr. Baljit Singh Bedi
New Delhi
HONY. SECRETARY (2019-2021)
Dr. Murthy Remilla
Karnataka
JOINT SECRETARY-CUM-HON.
TREASURER (2019-2021)
Mr. Repu Daman Chand
Uttar Pradesh
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
MEMBERS (2019-2021)
Dr. Sibananda Mohanty, Odisha
Mr. D. Satheesh Kumar
Tamil Nadu
Mr. Farooq Ahmad Wani
Jammu & Kashmir
Mr. Bijoy. MG, Kerala
Ms. Nishu Tyagi, New Delhi
Mr. Shiv Mishra, Uttar Pradesh
Bagmisikha Puhan, Legal Advisor
New Delhi
S. No
Content
Page No
1
Background
1.1. Definitions and applications
1.1.1. Telehealth
1.1.2. Telemedicine
1.1.3. Telenursing
1.1.4. Registered Nurse
1.1.5. Registered Auxiliary Nurse & Midwife
1.2. Scope of Guidelines
1.3. Qualifications required to practice telenursing
1
2
Technology and mode of Communication
6
3
Etiquette for Telenursing Practice
11
4
Guidelines for Telenursing Practice
14
5
Framework for Telenursing practice
5.1. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical
practitioner at an SHC (Sub health Center) Health &Wellness Center
5.2. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical
practitioner at a PHC (Primary Health Center) Health &Wellness Center
5.3. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical
practitioner in a community setting
5.4. Consultation between a registered Nurse and registered medical
practitioner in an emergency
5.5. Other Situations
22
6
Annexures
Assessment forms
Consent form
References
Reviewers
41
Abbreviations
ALS
: Advanced Life support
ANM
: Auxiliary Nurse Midwife
ASHA
: Accredited Social Health Activist
BLS
: Basic Life Support
CHC
: Community Health Center
EMS
: Emergency Medical Services
HWC
: Health &Wellness Center
ICN
: International Council of Nurses
INC
: Indian Nursing Council
MLHP
: Mid-Level Health Provider
PHC
: Primary Health Center
RANM
: Registered Auxiliary Nurse Midwife
RMP
: Registered Medical practitioner
RN
: Registered Nurse
SHC
: Sub Health Center
SMS
: Short Message Service
SOP
: Standard Operating Procedure
VoIP
: Voice over Internet Protocol
WHO
World Health Organization
1 | Page NIMHANS-2020
NIMHANS-TELENURSING PRACTICE GUIDELINES
BACKGROUND
Telemedicine (healing from a distance) is an emerging field in India. India is a developing
country with 138 crores of the population having limited health care facilities. Furthermore,
two-thirds of its population lives in remote rural areas and are unable to access health care
services. In this context, telemedicine is a boon for health care providers in bridging the
treatment gap between rural and urban India. Under the health initiative Ayushman Bharat, the
Indian government is committed to providing comprehensive health care services to citizens in
every corner of the country through Health &Wellness Centers (HWCs). Health and Wellness
Centers are digitally connected with hubs at district hospitals and medical colleges to enable
the access of specialist services from hubs to the patients.
The ‘e-Sanjeevani’ is a telemedicine service that is implemented under the Ayushman Bharat
health initiative at the Health and Wellness Centers. The ‘e-Sanjeevani’ is gradually shaping
into a parallel stream for the Indian healthcare delivery system as it is equally accepted by both
patients and health care providers. Congruently, ‘e-Sanjeevani OPD-Stay Home OPD’ app-
enabled teleconsultation between patients and doctors in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic
has been a welcome initiative. This teleconsultation platform not only contained the spread of
COVID-19 infection by ensuring physical distancing but also helped the patients in receiving
essential health care services.
At the Sub-Center level, Health &Wellness Centers are led by Mid-level health providers
(MLPs) who may be a registered nurse or an Ayurveda practitioner. Nurses being a major
workforce in the health care system help offer health care services to people in rural areas. In
rural India, people are neither able to access nor afford their health care requisites such as
specialist’s opinion and tertiary care services. In this context, nurses who work at Health
&Wellness Centers play an important role in enabling this disadvantaged population to receive
appropriate health care through telemedicine consultation. Hence, telenursing needs to be
integrated into the health care system to enhance and not replace existing healthcare services.
Globally, telenursing offers unlimited opportunities to its members to propel the nursing
profession forward. Yet, in India telenursing is not well established. Few initiatives of
telenursing in India include; conducting webinars to create awareness among nursing
professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Nursing council uses telenursing for
the Ph.D. program since 2006, the Department of Nursing at NIMHANS has been training and
2 | Page NIMHANS-2020
conducting patient case discussions with District Mental Health Program (DMHP) nurses in
Karnataka and Bihar through telenursing since 2017 and PGIMER Chandigarh is educating
nurses from Nepal and Afghanistan. Hence, there is an urgent need to establish telenursing as
a regular practice, given that it saves time, is cost-effective, and is accessible in emergency
times such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to the recent telemedicine practice guidelines by the Indian Medical Council,
telehealth can transform the health care system and provides equal access to quality of care to
all. Furthermore, in the case of a pandemic like COVID-19, it is the need of the hour for people
to consult health care professionals through the internet or videoconferencing for various
reasons. Thus, telenursing shall have a significant impact on overcoming some of the health
care challenges such as access to care, cost-effective delivery, and unequal distribution of
health care providers.
Currently, there are no legislations or guidelines that exist in India on the practice of
telenursing. The current guidelines were developed based on professional norms and standards
to enable nurses to practice telenursing in Indian settings.
Purpose
The purpose of this document is to provide general guidelines to registered nurses about the
use of telehealth technology. These guidelines would help registered nurses in identifying their
roles and responsibilities to provide professional, safe, compassionate, competent and ethical
care. This guideline is developed keeping in mind both private and public health establishment.
These telenursing guidelines were developed based on the Code of Ethics and Professional
Conduct for nurses in India. Therefore, it provides a clear direction for registered nurses to
practice telenursing within their professional boundaries. In these guidelines, the terms ‘Nurse’
and ‘Registered Nurse’ are used interchangeably.
These guidelines would also help nurses on how to collaborate with specialist doctors,
professional colleagues, and other health care team members in offering the best possible care,
on time. These guidelines act as a framework to enable nurses to adhere to ethical and
professional norms and direct them to be accountable for the care offered by them. However,
these guidelines should be used in conjunction with other national clinical standards, protocols,
policies, and procedures.
3 | Page NIMHANS-2020
1. TELENURSING: DEFINITIONS AND APPLICATIONS
1.1.1. Telehealth
The World Health Organization (WHO,2016) defines telehealth as
“Delivery of health care services, where patients and providers are separated by
distance. Telehealth uses information and communications technology (ICT) for the
exchange of information for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries,
research and evaluation, and for the continuing education of health professionals.
Telehealth can contribute to achieving universal health coverage by improving access
for patients to quality, cost-effective, health services wherever they may be. It is
particularly valuable for those in remote areas, vulnerable groups, and aging
populations.”
1.1.2. Telemedicine
World Health Organization (1998) defines telemedicine as
“The delivery of health-care services, where distance is a critical factor, by all health-
care professionals using information and communications technologies for the
exchange of valid information for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease
and injuries, research and evaluation, and the continuing education of health-care
workers, with the aim of advancing the health of individuals and communities.”
1.1.3. Telenursing
According to the International Council of Nurses (ICN,2009), telenursing is
“the use of telecommunications technology in nursing to enhance patient care. It
involves the use of electromagnetic channels (e.g. wire, radio, and optical) to transmit
voice, data, and video communications signals.”
1.1.4. Registered Nurse (RN)
For the purpose of these guidelines, a “Registered Nurse and Midwife” is defined as
“an individual who has completed minimum General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM)
course or BSc in Nursing course (BSc N) and has enrolled in the State Nursing Council
or Indian Nursing Council under the Indian Nursing Council Act, 1947”.
1.1. DEFINITIONS
4 | Page NIMHANS-2020
1.1.5. Registered Auxiliary Nurse & Midwife (R.ANM)
For these guidelines, a “Registered Auxiliary Nurse and Midwife” (R.ANM) or “Junior
Health Assistant” is defined as
“an individual who has completed the Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery course and have
enrolled in State Nursing Council and Indian Nursing Council under the Indian
Nursing Council Act 1947”.
These telenursing practice guidelines will be published under the INC Act, 1947. These
guidelines are developed to enable nurses and midwives in India in adopting and utilizing the
telenursing concept in their professional practice to provide optimal care.
▪ These guidelines are intended for Registered Nurses and Registered Auxiliary Nurse &
Midwives (RN&R. ANMs) under the INC Act 1947.
▪ These guidelines were developed based on the professional norms and standards of
practice recommended by the Indian Nursing Council, Trained Nurses Association of
India, and the International Council of Nurses. The review of other relevant
telemedicine practice guidelines was taken into consideration.
▪ Telenursing like telemedicine includes all channels of communication with the patient
that leverage Information Technology platforms, including Voice, Audio, Text &
Digital Data exchange.
▪ These guidelines also can be utilized to educate health care workers in various aspects
to update their knowledge.
Exclusions
The guidelines exclude the following:
▪ Data management systems involved; standards and interoperability.
▪ Use of digital technology and artificial intelligence to carry out specific nursing
procedures (Insertion of intravenous infusions, conducting deliveries, etc).
▪ Provide for consultations out of the professional boundaries
▪ Provide for tele-consultations outside the jurisdiction of India
1.2. SCOPE
5 | Page NIMHANS-2020
At the National Institute of Mental health and Neuro Sciences Bengaluru, the registered
Nurses must undergo an online course/training on the practice of telenursing.
1.3.1. Registered Nurses are entitled to provide telenursing consultation to patients from across
India both in private and public health establishments.
1.3.2. Registered Nurses who practice telenursing shall uphold the same professional and
ethical norms, laws and clinical standards consistent within the scope of professional
organizations (i.e., as outlined in various policy documents such as the Indian Nursing
Council Act, Code of ethics and professional standards for nurses in India and position
statements by Trained Nurses Association of India).
1.3.3. Understanding the core principles which are discussed in these guidelines enables the
nurses to sustain professional, legal, and ethical integrity in offering telenursing care.
1.3. QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED TO PRACTICE TELE NURSING
6 | Page NIMHANS-2020
2. TECHNOLOGY AND MODE OF COMMUNICATION
2.1. TECHNOLOGY USED IN TELE NURSING PRACTICE
Telenursing has evolved as an important branch of telemedicine. The essential technology tools
required for Telenursing include:
2.1.1. Dedicated Office Mobile /Landline number and Email ID
It is preferable to consider having a dedicated work phone/ office mobile line number/
professional social media account/Email ID to provide telenursing services. This helps
the nurses in communicating with their clients effectively.
2.1.2. Internet Connection
Secure and dependable internet connectivity is a prerequisite for a successful
telenursing experience. A range of healthcare-related activities such as video
conferencing, accessible health care records, emails, uninterrupted communications,
and so on, are largely based on network performance. It is advisable to have at least two
internet service providers to ensure incessant communication with patients or health
care providers. A wired connection through an ethernet cable is less prone to
interruptions. However, Wi-Fi technology has improved a lot. Yet individuals have to
remember not to move away from the range of the router. A general rule of thumb in
Wi-Fi networking is that Wi-Fi routers operating on the 2.4 GHz band which can reach
up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors. But this further reduces, if there are
concrete walls and acoustic walls (soundproof walls). Therefore, it is necessary to be
within the range of a Wi-Fi router to provide telenursing services and if required, install
a Wi-Fi range extender.
2.1.3. Computer system
A computer system comprises of two major elements namely hardware and software.
Computer hardware is the collection of physical parts that can be recognized easily
such as a keyboard, monitor, mouse, etc. In contrast, computer software is a set of
instructions to perform specific operations. For example, computer programs, online
documentation, digital media, etc. However, both computer hardware and software
require each other, and neither can function independently.
2.1. TECHNOLOGY USED IN TELE NURSING PRACTICE
7 | Page NIMHANS-2020
2.1.4. Hardware
The most common types of hardware used in Telenursing consultations include, desktop
and laptop computers and tablets.
2.1.4.1. Desktop computer
A desktop computer is a personal computer, consisting of a Central Processing Unit
(CPU), keyboard and a mouse. This type of computer is not portable due to its size and
power requirements.
2.1.4.2. Laptop computer
A laptop computer has the same hardware components but is integrated into a single
portable unit.
2.1.4.3. Tablets and mobile devices
Tablets, such as iPads, are often used in emergency services and other healthcare areas.
Health care professionals (doctors and nurses) were the early adopters of tablets and
smartphones due to their portability and advanced features. The majority of health care
consumers are also able to use mobile phones effectively for video and audio
conferencing with health care providers. Mobile technology allows an instant
connection between the consumers and healthcare professionals to provide convenient
care regardless of the location.
2.1.5. Software
Nurses may choose software applications that are simple, easily adaptable, and can
provide uninterrupted communication with their clients. It is also important to choose the
software applications which are most commonly used by the general public.
Telemedicine practice guidelines (2020) and telepsychiatry operative guidelines (2020)
also suggested the use of social media such as WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook, and so forth
which are popular among the general public.
2.1.6. Digital camera
Digital camera technology allows a simple, inexpensive telenursing experience. It is an
essential component of telenursing consultations. Thus, it is essential to have high-end,
high-resolution digital cameras as they allow nursing professionals to take clear images
8 | Page NIMHANS-2020
and share them with specialists at different locations. The way nurses present themselves
on camera is extremely important during video consultations. Therefore, the camera has
to be placed at eye-level. Active listening and maintaining eye contact (looking at the
camera) is important to build rapport with the patients. If nurses are taking notes on
history collection or complaints, it is necessary to keep the patients informed, lest that
behavior be mistaken as distraction on part of the nurse.
2.1.7. Infrastructure
The infrastructure of the teleconsultation room should create an environment that allows
nursing professionals to use technology in offering care to patients in remote areas.
2.1.7.1. Location
The room should be set up in a quiet location to avoid noise exposure. It is important
to remember that, sound can be easily picked up by microphones and create difficulty
in hearing for the remote participants. Preferably, the room should be situated away
from noisy hallways, waiting rooms or restrooms and air-conditioners, to enable better
sound quality. If possible, it is wise to select a windowless room to obtain better image
quality and ensure privacy. Rooms with windows should have curtains or screens.
2.1.7.2. Room size
The teleconsultation room should be large enough as it affects the camera’s field of view.
This distance between the two walls may vary according to the type of clinical service
being provided. Sometimes nurses would like to focus on the full view of the patient or
only the relevant body part. So, the nurses need to select the room size accordingly.
2.1.7.3. Room design
The room should be designed in such a way to allow the nursing staff to enter and exit
easily without disrupting the consultation process. There should be a facility to indicate
any technical problems that exist during telenursing consultation.
2.1.7.4. Location of windows
The clients or nursing professionals should not sit with their back against the window
as this causes backlighting and reduces image quality. If this is not possible, curtains
should be fixed to reduce the backlighting effect. It is also recommended to use light
blue or light grey colors on the walls to reduce the impact of lighting.
9 | Page NIMHANS-2020
2.2. MODE OF COMMUNICATION
According to telemedicine guidelines (2020), Video, Audio, or Text (chat, messaging, email,
fax, etc.) are the primary modes of communication. However, each one of these modes has
their respective strengths and weakness with respect to offering appropriate nursing care. It is
therefore important to understand the strengths, benefits as well as limitations of different
technologies.
2.2. MODE OF COMMUNICATION
10 | Page NIMHANS-2020
STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS OF VARIOUS MODES OF COMMUNICATION
Mode
Strengths
Limitations
VIDEO:
Telemedicine facility,
Apps,
Video on chat platforms,
Facetime etc.
▪ Closest to an in person-consult,
real-time interaction
▪ Patient identification is easier
▪ Nurses can see the patient and
discuss with the caregiver and
specialist doctors
▪ Visual cues can be perceived
▪ Inspection of the patient can be
carried out
▪ Is dependent on the high-quality internet
connection at both ends, else will lead to
a sub-optimal exchange of information
▪ Since there is a possibility of abuse/
misuse, ensuring the privacy of patients
in video consults is extremely important
AUDIO: Phone,
VOIP,
Apps etc.
▪ Convenient and fast
▪ Unlimited reach
▪ Suitable for urgent cases
▪ No separate infrastructure required
▪ Privacy ensured
▪ Real-time interaction.
▪ Non-verbal cues may be missed
▪ Not suitable for conditions that require a
visual inspection (e.g. skin, eye, tongue
examination), or physical touch
▪ Patient identification needs to be clearer,
greater chance of imposters representing
the real patient
TEXT BASED:
Specialized Chat-based
Telemedicine
Smartphone Apps, SMS,
WhatsApp, Google
Hangouts, Facebook
Messenger
▪ Convenient and quick
▪ Documentation & Identification
may be an integral feature of the
platform
▪ Suitable for urgent cases, or follow-
ups, consult with nurse colleagues,
specialist doctors, and others
▪ No separate infrastructure required,
▪ Can be real-time
▪ Besides the visual and physical touch,
text-based interactions also miss the
verbal cues
▪ Difficult to establish rapport with the
patient.
▪ Cannot be sure of the identity of the
health care providers or the patient
ASYNCHRONOUS:
Email
Fax, recordings, etc.
▪ Convenient and easy to document
▪ No specific app or download
requirement
▪ Images, data, reports readily
shared
▪ No separate infrastructure required
▪ More useful when accompanied by
test reports and follow up and
second opinions
▪ Not a real-time interaction, so just one-
way context is available, relying solely on
the articulation by the patient
▪ Patient identification is document-based
only and difficult to confirm
▪ Non-verbal cues are missed
▪ There may be delays because the health
care providers may not see the mail
immediately
VoIP-Voice over Internet Protocol, SMS-Short Message Service (Adopted from Telemedicine
Practice Guidelines 2020)
11 | Page NIMHANS-2020
3. ETIQUETTE FOR TELENURSING PRACTICE
This section deals with expected professional behaviors in telenursing practice. The list given
below is not exhaustive, rather, it includes some primary considerations for a successful
telenursing consultation.
Do’s
Don’ts
The RN Should
The RN should not
Environment
Test the equipment (camera, internet microphones,
speakers, etc) before a teleconsultation.
Know where to get technical assistance.
Clutter the teleconsultation room.
Always have an alternate communication channel.
Worry if technology fails.
Ensure privacy.
Conduct telenursing consultation in noisy and
open areas
Adjust the camera at eye level.
Look at the patient’s face. Eye to eye contact is
made with the patient by looking at the camera.
Ensure adequate light to visualize the patients.
Sit next to windows
Professional attire
Wear comfortable and neutral-colored clothes
Wear bright or fluorescent colored clothes.
Effective communication
Use a pleasant and normal tone of voice.
Shout or mumble to self.
Greet the patient, introduce self, and identify the
person to whom they are speaking.
Blindly proceed with the teleconsultation. Identify
the patient with valid documents.
Inform the clients about the telenursing process and
communication issues before their initial telehealth
encounter.
Give long explanations.
Listen actively without interrupting the clients
Speak to patients while they are talking (wait
about two seconds).
Offer factual information.
Make premature conclusions concerning patients’
health conditions.
Speak in lay language.
Use complicated medical terms.
12 | Page NIMHANS-2020
Engage the patient.
Nod and use open and attentive body language such as
leaning towards the camera
Show any signs of stress or impatience as these
facial expressions may not encourage patients to
express themselves.
Observe for verbal, emotional and behavioral cues that
can convey important client information (e.g., tone of
voice, background noise, body language)
Eat, drink or chew gum during a telehealth session
Ask open-ended questions in a logical sequence to
elicit patient-related information
Use closed-ended questions
End the conversation with appropriate pleasantries.
Example: thank you, have a nice day, wish you speedy
recovery…
Order or suggest to the patients
Professional Responsibility and Accountability
Seek help and share knowledge.
Perform activities with which she/he is not
competent.
Be accountable for the care they provide including
errors
Be accountable for the care provided by other
health care providers
Identify learning needs as technology is ever-changing
in the health care field.
Ignore the technological advancements in
telenursing practice.
Be clear about professional roles and responsibilities
and be consistent with standards and guidelines.
Give inappropriate advice.
Report unsafe or unprofessional behavior of their
professional colleagues to the authority.
Make excessive self-disclosure/secretive behaviour
in their practice
Be aware of professional responsibility when using
social media (Facebook, WhatsApp,
videoconferencing, etc.).
Disclose any information or upload photos/videos
of patients without their consent
Act as an advocate on behalf of their clients and ensure
that their(patients’) rights and interests are protected.
Disregard patients’ health-related decisions even if
those choices are detrimental to their health.
Maintain professional boundaries with their patients.
Receive any form of gift, favor, or gratification for
providing necessary care.
Respect other health team members.
Encourage bullying and other types of negative
workplace interactions.
Legal & ethical considerations
Ask the patients how they would like to be addressed.
Address patients with pet names or short names
without their consent.
Ensure the presence of family members especially
while visual physical examination by the RMP.
Proceed for visual physical examination
(especially when opposite genders are involved)
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without obtaining the consent of patient/family
members.
Maintain confidentiality of patient-related information.
Inform the client that other health care team members
who are directly involved in their care will have access
to personal health information.
Disclose patient-related information without
his/her consent to any third-party including family
members.
Listen to patients’ concerns and involve them in
treatment decisions.
Give suggestions or make decisions for the patient.
Empower the patients by providing appropriate
information on their health condition.
Bombard patients with unnecessary information.
Ensure that the patient understands what they are
consenting to undergo.
Assume that patients understand the medical terms
in the consent form.
Safeguard that passers-by, casual intruders, and
unauthorized personnel are not present in the area
where audio or visual images are received.
Be inattentive to the patients.
Documentation
Ensure that documentation is done at the end of each
telenursing consultation.
Document the care provided by other health care
providers.
Confirm that documentation reflects the nursing
process.
Delete patient-related information.
Follow the principles of documentation (accurate and
relevant, complete, up to date, organized logically and
sequentially).
Use inappropriate (not widely accepted)
abbreviations.
Ensure that documentation of patient care begins with
date and time and ends with nurses’ signature, RN/RM
registration number and designation.
Document without nurses’ signature and
designation.
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4. GUIDELINES FOR TELENURSING PRACTICE
Telenursing consultations need to be structured to provide optimal care to the patients. The
following elements need to be considered before beginning any telenursing consultation
(adopted from telemedicine guidelines, 2020).
1. Context
2. Identification of RN and Patient
3. Mode of Communication
4. Consent
5. Assessment and communication of the patient related information with RMP
6. Patient Management
7. Professional accountability and responsibilities of the registered nurse
Registered nurses should exercise their clinical skills and professional judgment to decide
whether a telenursing consultation is appropriate in a given situation or an in-person
consultation is needed in the interest of the patient.
In this phase, the RN should make a cursory assessment of the patients and communicate with
the RMP. After discussing with the RMP, the RN helps patients in deciding what type of care
they need. Standard protocols need to be developed to help the RN in making decisions for the
patients. However, protocols won’t replace the training on telenursing. Whatever the context
or situation, the registered nurse should uphold the same standard of care as an in-person
consultation.
4.2. IDENTIFICATION OF THE REGISTERED NURSE AND THE PATIENT
4.2.1. In telenursing consultation, both patients and nurses need to know each other’s identity.
4.2.2. Nurses should verify and confirm the patient’s identity by name, age, gender, address,
email ID, phone number, registered ID, or any other identification as may be deemed to
be appropriate. There should be a checklist or a form to acquire the details of the patients.
4.1.CONTEXT
4.2. IDENTIFICATION OF THE REGISTERED NURSE AND THE PATIENT
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4.2.3. The RN should ask for valid documents to confirm their age, height, and weight of the
patients and explain to them the necessity of the same for prescribing medications by the
RMPs. The nurses should confirm that adults are present with children during
teleconsultation (below 18 years of age).
4.2.4. The RN should obtain consent from the patient/family member to transmit the patient-
related data to the RMPs and other health team members.
4.2.5. The RN should display the registration number accorded to him/her by the State Nursing
Council/Indian Nursing Council, in all electronic communication (WhatsApp/ email,
etc.) and receipts.
4.3. MODE OF TELENURNG
4.3.1. The most commonly used modes of communication are Video, Audio, or Text (chat,
images, messaging, email, fax, etc.). Their strengths, limitations, and appropriateness as
detailed in Section 2.2 need to be considered by the nurses.
4.3.2. Mode of communication should be based on the patient’s symptoms and preferences of
the health care providers. There may be situations where a real-time consultation would
be better to understand the context than an asynchronous exchange of information by the
RN to the RMP. Therefore, the mode of technology can be decided by the health care
providers depending upon the situation and patients’ needs.
4. PATIENT CONSENT
Patient consent is necessary for teleconsultation. The consent can be implied or explicit
depending on the following situations:
4.4.1. If the patient initiates the telemedicine consultation, then consent is implied (the patient
has initiated the consultation).
4.4.2. Explicit patient consent is needed if:
▪ A Registered Nurse, Health worker, Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) or a family
member initiates a Telemedicine consultation.
4.3. MODE OF TELENURSING
4.4. PATIENT CONSENT
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4.4.3. Explicit consent can be recorded in any form. The patient can send an email, text, or an
audio/video message or consent form (Appendix-4). The patient also can state his/her
intent on phone/video to the registered Nurse (e.g. “Yes, I consent to avail consultation
via telenursing” or any such communication in simple words) and this must be saved
in the patient’s records.
4.5. COMMUNICATING THE INFORMATION FOR PATIENT EVALUATION
Registered nurses must collect adequate patient-related information to communicate with the
RMP which enables the RMP to make appropriate decisions for the patient.
4.5.1. Patient’s Information
▪ The RN should collect patients’ history based on protocols and guidelines (SOPs).
Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) and other community health workers (ASHAs,
Anganwadi teachers, etc) may not have adequate capacity to analyze the patient’s
problems. Hence, they need to undergo a brief training on identification of the patient’s
problems and how to communicate the same with the RMP in the higher center such as
Primary Health Center or Community Health Center.
▪ The RN should make a detailed assessment of the patients based on the written
protocols. This information can help the RMPs to rule out emergencies and positive
patient outcomes.
▪ If in case physical examination or in-person consultation is critical for the patient, RN
should facilitate the same with the RMP.
▪ The registered nurse should maintain all patient records including case history,
investigation reports, images, treatment prescribed by the doctors, and care offered by
nursing professionals, etc.
4.5 ASSESSMENT AND COMMUNICATION OF THE PATIENT RELATED
INFORMATION WITH RMP
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4.74.6.1. Nursing management of the patient includes:
▪ Clinical care
▪ Providing information and Health Education related to the disease condition
▪ Offering necessary Counselling related to specific clinical condition; and/or
▪ Reinforcing about treatment regimen as prescribed by the doctor
4.6.2. Clinical care
▪ The RN often initiates teleconsultation with the RMP to provide the best possible
care to the patients either at Health &Wellness Centers or in a community setting.
▪ The RN should offer nursing care to the patients as per the suggestions given by
the RMP.
▪ Few of the nursing care activities include:
□ Monitoring the vital signs
□ Distribution of medicines as prescribed by the RMP
□ Wound dressing
□ Suture removal
□ Administration of IV fluids and medicines,
□ Facilitates referral to other health team members such as physiotherapists,
speech therapists, dietitians, social workers as suggested by the RMP, etc.
4.6.3. Health education
The RN should
▪ Educate patients on lifestyle changes, diet, stress management techniques, etc.
▪ Use educational videos to educate patients to take care of themselves. For example.
How to inject insulin for themselves, changing a colostomy pouch system, etc.
▪ Empower the patients by providing necessary information about the disease condition,
so that they can make informed decisions, cope effectively with their illnesses, and
assume greater responsibility for their health.
4.6. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: CLINICAL CARE, HEALTH EDUCATION&
COUNSELLING, MEDICATION
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4.6.4. Counselling
▪ The RN should provide information about the disease condition, importance of
medication adherence, follow-up visits, investigations that need to be done before the
next visit with RMP and emotional support to patients and family members, etc.
4.6.5. Reinforcement of self-administration of medicines
▪ The RN should provide information about dose and route, time, frequency of the
medications as prescribed by the RMP.
▪ The RN should distribute the medicines that are available at Health and Wellness
Centers as per the prescription given by the RMP.
▪ The RN also should enquire with the RMP, if he/she has any concerns about the dose,
route, side effects of the medicines.
In some cases, if RMPs have given standing orders to continue the medications and
permitted the nurses in remote areas to distribute the medications according to their
written order. The RN should confirm with the RMP the same and then distribute the
medications as per the prescription. In telenursing practice
▪ It is necessary to develop written protocols and standards for telenursing practice
regarding medication management.
▪ Nurses are legally liable for wrong advice, medication errors, etc
▪ Nurses need to update their knowledge on medications including the action, side
effects, and interactions, etc.
4.6.6. Issue a Prescription and Transmit
▪ The RN should transmit or receive prescription in various digital format such as photo
or scan the digital copy of a signed prescription or e-Prescription issued by the
registered medical practitioner to the patient via email or any messaging platform.
▪ The RN should give a printed copy, if possible and explain the medications including
action, duration, and side effects.
▪ In case the RN is transmitting the e-prescription directly to a pharmacy, he/ she must
ensure the explicit consent of the patient that entitles him/her to get the medicines
dispensed from any pharmacy of his/ her choice.
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4.6.7. Documentation
▪ RNs should document the care provided to the patients in their health records.
▪
UNTABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ED
4.7.1. Nursing Ethics, Data Privacy & Confidentiality
4.7.1.1. Principles of nursing ethics, including professional norms for protecting patient
privacy and confidentiality as per the INC Act, shall be binding and must be upheld
and practiced.
4.7.1.2. Registered Nurse would be required to fully abide by the Indian Council Act 1947
(Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) and with the relevant provisions of the
IT Act, Data protection and privacy laws, or any applicable rules notified from time
to time for protecting patients’ privacy and confidentiality and regarding the handling
and transfer of such personal information regarding the patient. This shall be binding
and must be upheld and practiced.
4.7.1.3. Registered Nurses will not be held responsible for breach of confidentiality if there is
reasonable evidence to believe that the patient’s privacy and confidentiality have been
compromised by a technology breach or by a person other than RN. The RNs should
ensure that a reasonable degree of care is undertaken while hiring such services.
4.7.1.4. Misconduct
The registered nurses are legally liable if their actions willfully compromise patient's
care or privacy and confidentiality, or violation of prevailing laws. Some examples of
misconduct in telenursing practice include:
▪ RNs insisting on Telemedicine, when the patient is willing to travel to a
facility and/or requests an in-person consultation.
▪ RNs misusing patient images and data, which are especially private and
sensitive (e.g. RN uploads an explicit picture of the patient on social media
etc).
▪ RNs issueing prescription
4.7. PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE
REGISTERED NURSE
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▪ RNs giving inappropriate advice out of their professional boundaries.
▪ RNs are not permitted to solicit patients for telenursing through
advertisements or inducements.
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5. FRAMEWORK FOR TELENURSING PRACTICE
This section describes the framework for practicing telenursing either in the public or private
health sector in the following scenarios:
1. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical practitioner at a SHC
(Sub health Center) Health &Wellness Center
2. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical practitioner at a PHC
(Primary Health Center) Health &Wellness Center
3. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical practitioner in a
community setting
4. Consultation between a registered Nurse and registered medical practitioner in an
emergency
5. Other situations
Essential considerations
▪ The professional judgment of registered nurses should be the guiding principle for all
telenursing consultations. A registered nurse is well positioned to decide whether a
technology based consultation is sufficient or a collaborative video consultation with
RMP or an in-person consultation with RMP is needed. Nurses shall exercise
professional discretion and not compromise on the quality of care.
▪ The mode of communication (video, audio, text) in a teleconsultation will be based
upon the professional discretion and judgement of the RN to decide the best mode of
communication to provide care
▪ The RN should not proceed with the consultation if patients are not interested or
request an in-person consultation.
▪ The RN should remember that both patients and nurses have the right to choose to
discontinue the teleconsultation.
▪ Telenursing consultation should not be anonymous. Both, the patient and the RN need
to know each other’s identity.
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5.1. ETWEEN PATIENT/ CAREGIVER AND REGISTERED
This section of guidelines deals with stepwise instructions to be followed in the process of
teleconsultation between a registered nurse and a registered medical practitioner either in the
private or public health sectors.
Proposed set up:
• The HWC at the Sub Health Centre level is accessible to the rural population within 30
minutes.
• This SHC Health and Wellness Center would be led by a Mid-Level Health Provider
(MLHP). MLHP could be either an RN or an Ayurveda practitioner.
• These centers act as the first point of referral for the health care needs of the patients to
PHC level Health and Wellness centers.
• If patient can afford, nurses can initiate teleconsultation with the RMPs in private health
care set up also.
5.1.1. Teleconsultation process
The flow of the process is summarized in Flowchart-1 and the steps are detailed below.
1. Start of Consultation between patient and registered nurse
▪ The patient visits a health and wellness center at the Sub Health Centre level and
approaches the registered nurse.
2. Patient identification and consent
▪ If the patient is visiting the HWC for the first time, then the registered nurse should
enquire about the details of the patient such as name, age, address, email ID, phone
number as per the protocols and guidelines.
▪ If the patient is visiting HWC for follow-up or with new health complaints, patient
can be identified with previous health records.
5.1. CONSULTATION BETWEEN REGISTERED NURSE AND REGISTERED
MEDICAL PRACTITIONER AT A SHC (SUB HEALTH CENTER) HEALTH
&WELLNESS CENTER
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▪ The RN should obtain consent from the patient for teleconsultation with the RMP
through audio, video, or text mode.
3. Quick assessment by the RN
▪ The RN should inquire about the purpose of the visit and the health complaints of the
patients.
▪ The RN should assess the patient's condition using the assessment forms which
includes key details of the patient: age, gender, chief complaints, emotional status and
previous medical history.
▪ The RN should further inquire about the presence of symptoms that require
emergency interventions (Appendix 3).
▪ This key relative information helps the RN to communicate with RMP and to decide
whether the patient requires immediate interventions.
4. In case of emergency, the following steps would be undertaken:
▪ If the patient requires immediate interventions, the RN should provide first aid/
immediate relief measures as suggested by the RMP and guide the patient for a
referral to the nearest health care facility either govt (PHC or CHC) or private.
▪ The RN should document the same in the patient’s record.
If the patient’s condition does not require emergency intervention, the following steps would
be undertaken:
5. Exchange of Information for Patient Evaluation
▪ If necessary, the RN must validate the patient information by the family
members/caregivers. The patient/caregiver shall be responsible for the accuracy of
information shared with the nurse.
▪ The RN should communicate the patient-related information (complaints, previous
medical history, treatment, lab reports, etc) with the RMP at PHC or CHC.
▪ The RN should facilitate telemedicine consultation with the RMP. If the patient
requests an in-person consultation with the RMP, the RN facilitates the same.
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6. Start of a Teleconsultation with a registered medical practitioner
▪ The RN should initiate the teleconsultation for the patient with the RMP and
communicate patient-related information.
▪ The RN should request consent from the patient or caregiver to switch on to video
consultation if necessary.
7. Patient Identification (by RMP)
▪ The RMP also should confirm the patient's identity to his/her satisfaction by asking the
patient’s name, age, address, email ID, phone number, or any other identification that
may be reasonable.
▪ The RMP should make her/his identity known to the patient.
8. Patient Consent (by RMP):
▪ RMP should confirm the patient’s consent to continue the consultation
9. Patient Management
▪ The RN should identify patients’ actual or potential problems and communicate the
same with the RMP.
▪ Based on the needs of the patient and suggestions from the RMP, the RN should refer
the patients to other health professionals.
The following activities would be carried out by the Registered Nurse:
Clinical care
The RN should
▪ Obtain e-prescription from the RMP
▪ Distribute the medicines as per the prescription provided by the RMP
▪ Facilitate referral to other health team members as per suggestions by RMP
▪ Provide nursing care based on the needs of the patient. Few of the nursing
procedures include but not limited to
• Monitoring vital signs
• Wound dressing
• Suture removal
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• Administration of IV fluids or Injections as per the prescription provided by
the RMP
Health Education & Counselling
The RN should
▪ Provide information about the disease condition
▪ Reinforce medicines (dose, duration, side effects)
▪ Guide the patients for lab investigations for the next visit
▪ Educate about lifestyle changes including diet, sleep, exercise, relaxation methods,
and so on.
▪ Listen to patients’ concerns and provide support as necessary
▪ Clarify the concerns of the patients/family members if any
▪ Empower the patients to take care of themselves by providing necessary
information
▪ Inform about a follow-up visit
10. Documentation
▪ The RN should document the same in the patient’s health record.
The RN may advise the patient/caregiver to call him/her back if the symptoms worsen, or new
symptoms arise or if there is any other problem; the RN may follow-up with the patients
himself/ herself if required.
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Flow chart 1. Consultation between a registered nurse and registered medical
practitioner at SHC Health &Wellness Centres
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ANM/HEALTH WORKER AND REGISTERED
Health and Wellness Centers at the PHC level led by registered medical practitioners and are
responsible for comprehensive health care services delivered through SHC HWCs and through
the PHC itself.
5.2.1. Proposed Set up
▪ The RN at a PHC or from a Health & Wellness Center either in the public or private
health establishment can initiate and coordinate the telemedicine consultation for the
patient with an RMP at a higher center at the District or State or National level.
5.2.2. Teleconsultation process
The flow of the process is summarized in Flow chart 2 and the steps are detailed below:
1. Start of consultation between patient and registered nurse
▪ The patient visits the PHC or Health and Wellness Center or to a private health
establishment and approaches the RN.
2. Patient identification and consent (By RN)
▪ If the patient is visiting the HWC for the first time, then the registered nurse should
enquire about the details of the patient such as, name, age, address, email ID, phone
number as per the protocols and guidelines (SOPs).
▪ If the patient is visiting the HWC for follow-up or with new health complaints,
patient can be identified with previous health records.
▪ The RN should obtain consent from the patient for teleconsultation with the RMP
through audio, video, or text mode.
3. Quick assessment by the registered nurse
▪ The RN should assess the patient's condition based on the key information which
includes; age, gender, chief complaints and previous medical history.
5.2. CONSULTATION BETWEEN THE REGISTERED NURSE AND REGISTERED
MEDICAL PRACTITIONER AT A PHC (PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER)
HEALTH &WELLNESS CENTER
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4. In case of emergency, the following steps would be undertaken:
▪ If the RN suspects that the patient requires emergency intervention, she/he should
facilitate in-person consultation of the patient with RMP and provide immediate relief
measures/first-aid as suggested by the RMP. The RN should guide the patient/family
member to the nearest Govt or private health care facility.
▪ If in case the RMP is not available at PHC HWC, the RN may initiate teleconsultation
with the RMP either from public or private health establishment.
▪ The RN must communicate patient-related information with the RMP and provide
immediate relief measures/first-aid as suggested by the RMP. The RN should guide
the patient/family member to the nearest Govt or private health care facility.
If the patient’s condition does not require emergency intervention, the following steps should
be undertaken:
5. Exchange of information for patient evaluation
▪ The RN should facilitate in-person consultation of the patient with RMP at PHC or at
Health &Wellness Center.
▪ The RN must communicate the patient-related information (complaints, previous
medical history, treatment, lab reports, etc) with RMP.
If in case, RMP is not available at PHC HWC, then the following steps should be taken:
6. Start of a Teleconsultation with the registered medical practitioner
▪ The RN should initiate the teleconsultation for the patient with the RMP and
communicate patient-related information.
▪ The RN should request consent from the patient or caregiver to switch on to video
consultation if necessary.
7. Patient Identification (by RMP)
▪ The RMP also should confirm the patient's identity to his/her satisfaction by asking the
patient’s name, age, address, email ID, phone number, or any other identification that
may be reasonable.
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▪ The RMP should make her/his identity known to the patient.
8. Patient Consent (by RMP):
▪ RMP should confirm the patient’s consent to continue the consultation
9. Patient Management by the RN
▪ The nursing management of the patient as enunciated in the scenario of consultation
between the registered nurse and registered medical practitioner (5.1.1)
10. Documentation
The RN should document the same in the patient’s records with his/her signature, time and
date.
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BETWEEN REGISTERED
Registered Nurses and Registered Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (RANMs) often make home visits
and are aware of the health status of the people living in their respective areas.
5.3.1. Proposed setup
▪ This section discusses the consultation between RANM/RN and RMP in a community
setting which includes health camps, home visits, mobile medical units, or any
community-based interaction either from public or private health sector.
5.3.2. Teleconsultation process
The flow of the process is summarized in Flow chart 3 and the steps are detailed below:
1. Patient identification
▪ If the RN is visiting the patient for the first time, he/she should enquire about the details
of the patient such as name, age, address, email ID, phone number as per the protocols
and guidelines (SOPs).
▪ If in case the RN is visiting the patient for follow-up, then he/she should identify the
patient from patient’s health record.
2. Consent (By RN)
▪ The RN should obtain consent from the patient/family members to assess physical and
mental health status of the patient and for teleconsultation with the RMP if necessary.
3. Quick assessment by RN
▪ The RN should introduce himself/herself and get the required information about the
purpose of the visit.
▪ The RN should assess the health status of patients and inquire for any new complaints
based on the protocols and guidelines.
▪ If no new complaints, the RN should provide routine nursing care to the patient based
on the needs of the patient as described in section 5.5.1.
5.3. CONSULTATION BETWEEN THE REGISTERED NURSE AND REGISTERED
MEDICAL PRACTITIONER IN A COMMUNITY SETTING
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4. In case of emergency, the following steps should be undertaken:
▪ If the patient requires immediate intervention, the RN should obtain consent from the
patient/family member.
▪ The RN should provide first aid/ immediate relief measures as suggested by the RMP
and guide the patient for a referral to the nearest health care facility either govt (PHC
or CHC) or private.
▪ The RN should document the same in the patient’s record.
If the patient’s condition does not require emergency intervention, the following steps should
be undertaken:
5. If the patient requires evaluation by the RMP, the following steps should be
undertaken:
▪ If the patient has new complaints or requests teleconsultation with RMP or if the RN
has any doubts regarding patient care such as dose of the medication, presence of side
effects of the medicines, etc, then the RN should initiate teleconsultation with the
RMP.
▪ The RN should request consent from the patient or caregiver to switch on to video
consultation if necessary.
6. Start of a Teleconsultation with the registered medical practitioner
▪ The RN should initiate the teleconsultation through audio, video, or text mode with
RMP for the patient and communicate patient-related information with the RMP.
7.Patient Identification (by RMP)
▪ The RMP also should confirm the patient's identity to his/her satisfaction by asking the
patient’s name, age, address, email ID, phone number, or any other identification that
may be reasonable.
▪ The RMP should make her/his identity known to the patient
8. Patient Consent (by RMP):
▪ RMP should confirm the patient’s consent to continue the consultation
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9. Patient Management by the RN
▪ The nursing management of the patient as enunciated in the scenario of consultation
between the registered nurse and registered medical practitioner (5.1.1)
10. Documentation
The RN should document the same in the patient’s records with his/her signature and date.
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also include health camps, home visits, mobile medical units, or any community-b
This section describes teleconsultation between a registered nurse and a registered medical
practitioner in a prehospital emergency.
5.4.1. Proposed set up
▪ The comprehensive Emergency Medical Services (EMS) model in India is “108
Ambulance Service” to provide pre-hospital emergency care from event occurrence to
evacuation to an appropriate health care facility within 20 minutes.
▪ It is recommended that the telemedicine device (microphone, speakers, a screen, and a
360° view camera) to be securely fixed to the ceiling of the ambulance. It allows
bidirectional audio-visual communication between the registered nurse and registered
medical practitioner.
▪ The ambulance should be well-equipped with emergency medicines and cardiac
monitor and defibrillator to provide Basic Life Support (BLS), or Advanced Life
support (ALS) depending on the patient’s condition.
5.4.2. Teleconsultation process
The flow of the process is summarized in Flow Chart 4 and steps are detailed below.
▪ In case of an emergency (Road Traffic Accident, heart attack, stroke, seizures,
breathing difficulties, pregnancy, and any other medical emergencies), the patient or
the bystander should initiate a call to a three-digit emergency number ‘108’.
▪ A specially trained communication officer receives the call at the call center. On receipt
of the call, he/she would collect critical information related to the place, location,
landmark, number of individuals involved, and the type and seriousness of emergency.
▪ Depending upon the criticality, an ambulance will be dispatched and the call center
should locate the nearest health care facility to provide primary care for the patients.
1. Communication of the information with the RN
▪ The call center staff should alert the EMS at a nearest health care facility and
communicates the patient related information with the RN.
5.4. CONSULTATION BETWEEN THE REGISTERED NURSE AND REGISTERED
MEDICAL PRACTITIONER IN EMERGENCY
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2. Patient identification and consent (By RN)
▪ The RN should confirm the patient’s identity by asking his/her name, age, address,
email ID, phone number, or any other identification that may be reasonable.
▪ The RN should obtain verbal consent from the patient/bystander to proceed with
the teleconsultation.
3. Start of telenursing consultation
▪ The nurse should initiate teleconsultation either with the patient or bystander. Real-
time video communication can be ideal to assess the situation of the patient. This
enables the RN to arrive with expectations regarding the types of injuries or
situations they may encounter.
▪ The RN should give pre-arrival instructions to the caller/bystander based on the
needs of the patient after communicating the patient information with the RMP.
4. On-scene triaging of patients
▪ The RN should assess the scene for the patient’s safety.
▪ The RN must assess the adequacy of Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability
(ABCD), level of consciousness, the extent of external bleeding, and any other
health emergencies.
5. If incase RMP is available at a nearest health care facility, the following steps should
be undertaken:
▪ If incase a health care facility (Govt or private) is nearby and the RMP is available, then
the RN should communicate patient information with the RMP through audio, video,
or text messages after obtaining consent from the patient/bystander and provide
immediate relief measures or first aid as suggested by the RMP and accompany the
patient to the nearest health care facility.
6. If incase RMP is not available and/or health care facility is faraway, the following steps
would be undertaken:
▪ The RN should initiate teleconsultation with the RMP after obtaining consent from the
patient/bystander.
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7. Patient identification (By RMP)
▪ The RMP should confirm the patient's identity to his/her satisfaction by asking the
patient’s name, age, address, email ID, phone number, or any other identification.
▪ The RMP should make his/her identity known to the patient/ bystander.
8. Consent by Registered Medical Practitioner
▪ RMP should confirm the patient’s consent to continue the consultation
9. Patient Management
▪ The RN should initiate a bidirectional video consultation with the RMP which enables
him/her to visualize the scenario, talk to the patient/bystander, and help the RN in
establishing the priorities for immediate care. If video consultation is not possible,
he/she can use an alternate mode of communication (audio, voice, or text).
▪ The RN should communicate patient-related information such as blood pressure,
respiration, oxygen saturation, level of responsiveness, and any other health-related
information. If possible, the RN can send and transmit the patient-related data through
technological devices.
▪ The RMP should give live instructions to the RN to perform basic procedures,
administration of medications, and transferring of the patient to the nearest facility.
▪ In certain instances, if the patient requires tertiary care and may benefit from bypassing
the nearest health care facility, then the patient may be transported to the closest
specialized hospital.
10. Documentation and handover to RN at the emergency department
▪ The RN should make necessary documentation including the reason for referral,
history, drug allergies, procedures performed, drug administration, and the response of
the patient to the treatment.
▪ The RN should inform the patient/bystander about the identity of the receiving nurse
and the RMP who will be involved in providing patient care.
▪ The RN should communicate patient-related information along with documented
charts.
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Flowchart 4. Consultation between a registered Nurse and registered medical
practitioner in an emergency
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Telenursing provides an array of opportunities to the nurses as they provide health care services
across the lifespan. The following are the few situations where the nurses can provide
telenursing services to various stakeholders.
1. E-Home visits
The RN should make e-home visits to patients who are immobilized or live in remote
areas and with chronic illnesses. The RN can visit several patients in a short period (10-
12 patients per day). The activities of the RN include:
▪ The RN should assess the physical and mental health of the patients and can
make a timely referral if needed.
▪ The RN should remind about lab investigations before the next visit, the due
date for the next visit, etc.
▪ The RN should monitor regularly whether patients are adhering to medications.
If not, he/she reinforces the importance of medication adherence.
▪ The RN empowers the patients in taking care of themselves by providing
adequate information.
2. Post-hospitalization
▪ The RN should make e-home visit preferably in the first 12 -24 hrs. after the
discharge from the hospital.
▪ The RN should guide the patients in taking care of the postoperative wounds
with aseptic techniques.
▪ The RN should encourage the patients in self-reporting of the symptoms.
▪ The RN can include discharge summary advice as educational videos in the
patient’s language which can increase discharge advice compliances. It is also
advised to include a contact number for telenursing consultation in the discharge
summary sheet so that patients can consult nursing professionals for the required
care.
5.5. OTHER SITUATIONS
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3. Maternal and Child health nursing care
The RN should educate antenatal and postnatal mothers on nutrition, self-care, mental
health, exclusive breastfeeding, preparing first-time mothers when to go to the
hospital and how to reduce labor-related anxiety, etc. The RN can form support groups
to provide education and share their experiences.
4. Geriatric nursing care
▪ The RN should educate elderly people on how to use mobile phones to report
their complaints with health care providers.
▪ The RN should assess for chronic illnesses, age-related disabilities and offer
support as necessary.
▪ Providing care at home and triaging with RMP through telemedicine, as and when
required
5. Mental health
▪ The RN should help the patients with suicidal ideas and depression by building
trusting relationships.
▪ The RN should motivate the patients in the cessation of tobacco consumption,
alcohol relapse, and adherence to antipsychotic treatment.
CONCLUSION:
This document on Telenursing guidelines is an attempt to equip the most critical healthcare
professionals in providing care through the use of technology that would help basic healthcare
facilities reach the unreached thus far. They would play a pivotal role in Health & Wellness
Centers which is an ambitious plan by the Government of India in providing care for rural
India. This guideline is for both public and private health establishments.
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Annexures
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Appendix-1
Telenursing Documentation Form (Optional)
Name of the patient:
Name of the Mother/Father/ Guardian:
Gender: M F
DOB:
Age:
Phone number
Alternate number
Email id:
Caller: Patient/others
If others, Relationship with the patient:
Date
Time
Address:
City: Pin Code:
State:
Height: Weight:
Vital signs (if possible)
Temperature
Pulse
Respirations
Blood pressure
LMP (If applicable):
Pregnancy:
Breastfeeding: Y N
Immunization: Y N Next Due Date
Chief complaints (Duration)
Key symptom History (Based on the symptoms Appendix 3)
Family History of medical illness: Diabetes/Hypertension/Hyperthyroidism/Tuberculosis/Other
Personal history
Medical diagnosis (If applicable)
▪ Currently on treatment Y N
▪ Allergies Y N
▪ Recent Hospitalization Y N
▪ H/O substance abuse Y N
▪ H/O Domestic violence Y N
If yes
Name of the drug, dose, frequency, route, last visit to a
specialist doctor
If yes
Food, Medication, Environment, Others
If yes
The reason, DOA, DOD, current health status
If Yes
Elaborate
If Yes
Elaborate
Use the diagram to mark, if there are any
injuries/pain/symptoms to help the doctor understand
and localize the patient’s problems:
Impression:
Patient’s willingness to follow the advice Y N
If No
Precautions explained Y N
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Appendix-2
Follow -up Telenursing Documentation Form (Optional)
Patient Name:
ID No:
Mother/Father/Guardian Name:
Age
DOB
Gender
Height: Weight:
Vital signs (if possible)
Temperature
Pulse
Respirations
Blood pressure
Diagnosis:
Review of signs and symptoms
Assess for new symptoms
Medication adherence Y N
Review the medications with patient/family member
Medications updated in EHR Y N
Reinforce the importance of medication adherence with
patient/ family member
If No
Reason
Name of drug
Dose
Route
Side effects
Laboratory Investigations
If required before consulting the physician, provide
guidance and advice
Date of appointment with physician:
Preferred mode of telenursing consultation:
Preferred time
Time call ended
Signature of the RN
Date:
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Appendix 3
‘Red flag’ symptoms for emergency referral
▪ Chest pain
o Chest discomfort often described as the feeling of squeezing or tightness
o Radiating pain to the neck, jaw, and left arm.
o It can be associated with palpitations, breathlessness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or
sweating.
▪ Loss of Consciousness for any reason
o Dysfunction of the heart, orthostatic hypotension, falls, seizures
▪ Shortness of breath
o Intense chest pain
o Need for air or air hunger
▪ Unusual bleeding
o Blood in Vomitus (Peptic ulcers, gastric cancer, oesophageal cancer)
o Blood in the stool (rectal cancer, colon cancer)
o Blood in the urine (Kidney stones, Kidney infections, Bladder cancer)
o Coughing up blood (lung cancer, pulmonary edema, tuberculosis, pneumonia, trauma
to the lungs)
o Post-menopausal bleeding (cervical cancer)
o Bleeding disorders
▪ Unexplained weight loss (loss of more than 5% of body weight unintentionally within 6-12
months)
o Health conditions such as hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone levels), diabetes
mellitus, food intolerances, malabsorption, cancer, heart failure, and intake of certain
medications.
▪ Sudden and severe headache
o May be associated with nausea, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.
o Life-threatening conditions such as bleeding in the brain due to the rupture of an
artery, a blood clot in the brain, meningitis or extremely high blood pressure
▪ High or Persistent fever above 103°F
o Urinary tract infection, pneumonia, endocarditis
o Leukemia or lymphoma
▪ Symptoms of stroke
o Severe headache
o Sudden confusion
o Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, hands, and legs
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o Sudden blurring or loss of speech, seizures
o Dizziness and loss of coordination
▪ Severe Abdominal Pain
o A sudden or severe abdominal pain is most often an emergency. It could be due to
Rupture of an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta
o Perforation of the stomach or intestines
o kidney stones
o Inflammations like appendicitis, diverticulitis, and cholecystitis, or ischemia of the
intestines (reduced blood flow to the intestines).
▪ Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Note: When assessing the severity of the symptoms, age, gender and associated medical illnesses to
be considered
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Appendix-4
INFORMED CONSENT FORM
I Mr/Ms/Mrs__________________________ S/o__________________________________
would like to state that, I have understood the information provided regarding telemedicine. I
hereby give my informed consent for the use of telenursing consultation in my health care. At
present, I am located at ________________________________________
I understand that I have the right to withhold or withdraw my consent to the use of
Telenursing in the course of my care at any time, without affecting my right to future care or
treatment in any manner.
I hereby authorize Mr/Ms/Mrs________________________S/o ____________ ______and
related to me as ___________________________________ (relationship) to represent me.
He/she will represent and participate in my healthcare through telemedicine in the
course of my diagnosis and treatment. I understand and accept that there are risks and
benefits in assigning a representative for my healthcare.
Signature of patient's Representative _______________________ Date: __________
Signature of patient______________________________________ Date: __________
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References
1. ANA. (2015). “Nursing Informatics: Scope and Standards of Practice,” 2nd Edition.
Retrieved from https://www.himss.org/what-nursing-informatics.
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http://www.icn.ch/images/stories/documents/publications/fact_sheets/18b_FS-
Telenursing.pdf.
3. ICN. (2009). ICN Framework of Competencies for the Nurse Specialist, Retrieved
from https://siga-
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Mobile Health (pp. 159-184): CRC Press.
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Reviewers
We thank the following experts for reviewing the draft guidelines and for their
constructive suggestions
▪ Dr Sailaxmi Gandhi, Professor& Head, Department of Nursing, National Institute of
Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru.
▪ Dr. Prasanthi Nattala, Additional Professor, Department of Nursing, National
Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (Institute of National Importance),
Bengaluru.
▪ Dr. Radhakrishnan G, Associate Professor, Department of Nursing, National
Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (Institute of National Importance),
Bengaluru.
▪ Dr Deepak Agrawal, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of
Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
▪ Dr. Chethan Basavarajappa, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, National
Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (Institute of National Importance),
Bengaluru.
▪ Dr.Paridhijah, Executive Director, Foundation for research and health systems,
Bengaluru.
▪ Dr.Hemalatha, Principal, Universal College of Nursing, Bengaluru.
▪ Dr Shobha Rani, National Forensic Mental Health Service,Central Mental Hospital,
Dundrum, Dublin.
▪ Ms. Metilda Robin, Senior Nursing Officer, All India Institute of Medical Sciences,
New Delhi.
▪ Prof. Girijamba Devi, Principal, AECS Maruthi College of Nursing, Bengaluru.
▪ Mr.James Paul, Senior Nursing Officer, Telemedicine Centre, National Institute of
Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru.
NIMHANS Publication No. 186
