UNFORSEEN OUTCOMES3Unforeseen Outcomes in Health Information TechnologyIntroductionAdvancement in technology worldwide has resulted in its adoption in the healthcare sector [1].Technology has been adopted in various fields of health, including nursing. Integrating health informationtechnology in nursing benefits the patient, nursing practitioners, and the healthcare system [2]. However,it also posits some challenges to the nursing profession. In addition to using technology in nursingpractice, technology has been fundamental and instrumental in research [2]. In this context, healthresearch involves using digital platforms and digital apps to collect data and use it to inform health-related policies and practices. However, using technology in nursing and health research is associatedwith ethical issues and dilemmas [3].Health information technology, commonly referred to as health IT or IT is the electronic systemhealthcare providers use to store, share, and even analyze health data [4]. Examples include electronichealth records, personal health records, and prescribing [4]. Health IT has many patient benefits, such asincreased access to medical information; however, HIT also raises many ethical questions [5]. Forguidance about ethics, health care often relies on the principles of nonmaleficence, refraining fromharming patients. When handling HIT, respect for autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, and justicemust be considered [6]. When conducting research using health information technology, ethics may not bethe first thing that comes to mind, so there is benefit in examining any possible unforeseen problems.Ethics Issues in Health ITThere are unintended issues that arise when utilizing health IT. Health IT is utilized daily foroverall healthcare-related business and patient care, so it is crucial to ensure confidentiality and protectthe privacy of personal health information. Ensuring confidentiality may appear difficult becauseelectronic records are shared easily amongst healthcare professionals, coders, administration, andinsurance [7]. There is a potential for security breaches and data inaccuracies [8]. Goodman, 2020). Anethical concern that may not be as evident is the possibility of integrity issues due to inaccurate data [8].
