Abstract:
Introduction
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of
morbidity and mortality worldwide. Their chronic evolution
requires continuous monitoring, prevention strategies, and
coordinated care. Information technologies facilitate data
management, communication among healthcare professionals, and efficient monitoring of patients with chronic
conditions. In primary healthcare, nurses play a central role
in preventive interventions, patient education, and longterm management of individuals with NCDs. However, the
integration of digital tools into nursing practice in the
Republic of Moldova remains a challenge for health
professionals and the health system.
Aim of the study
To assess the role and utilization of information technologies
(IT) in the professional activity of primary healthcare (PHC)
nurses and their contribution to the prevention and
management of NCDs.
Material and methods
A KAP (Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices) study was
conducted using a structured questionnaire designed to
assess their' understanding, perceptions, and behaviors regarding the use of information technologies in daily practice
for the management of NCDs, with data analyzed
descriptively to identify trends and insights. Participation in
the study was voluntary. The collected data were processed
and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods in order
to identify major trends, patterns, and perceptions related to
the integration of digital technologies into primary
healthcare services. Ethical principles of confidentiality,
anonymity, and informed participation were maintained.
Results
The study included 350 family medicine nurses from PHC
facilities from the Republic of Moldova. The findings
indicate that IT is frequently (63.71%) used in their daily
activities. Digital systems are mainly applied for managing
electronic health records, scheduling consultations
(61.40%), documenting clinical data, and monitoring
patients with chronic diseases (56.80%). The use of IT
facilitates faster access to patient information, improves the
quality of medical care (46.90%), and supports better
coordination within the medical team (54.90%). In addition,
digital tools contribute to more effective follow-up (82.7%)
of patients with NCDs, supporting the planning of preventive
interventions and health education activities.
Conclusion
The integration of information technologies into primary
healthcare practice represents an important factor in
improving the management of noncommunicable diseases.
From the nurses’ perspective, these digital tools support
both the quality of healthcare services and the implementation of preventive interventions and health education
activities.
