Robotic cardiac surgery

The health care climate is evolving due to influences of new technology, and robotic surgery has become a part of many surgical procedures and specialties. Incorporation of robotic procedures in cardiac surgery has several recognized benefits for patient outcomes, including a smaller incision, decrease in pain, and shorter hospital stay. Increased use of robotics will influence how nurses educate and care for their patients and the types of health care options that will be offered to patients in the future. AORN J 77 (Jan 2003) 182-186.