There's also an inherent lack of trust for interactive technologies
that has to be considered. Although many people speak to Alexa in
their homes without a second thought, others believe she's a secret
government agent who hears and records our most private conversa-
tions.
Ms. Lindenauer has heard both viewpoints at Boston Children's.
Many staff members are excited about the possibility of using the
technology in the OR, while others have expressed serious concerns
about the possibility that Big Brother is listening to what goes on dur-
ing surgery and jeopardizing the privacy of the patients they're sworn
to protect. Some staff members have pushed back against implement-
ing the technology and others have offered to champion its use.
"Introducing any new technology into the OR requires plenty of
staff and surgeon education," says Ms. Lindenauer. "Adding smart
speakers will require even more of an effort to address their con-
cerns and allay their fears."
Voice assistance should add value, not another step or worry for
providers to think about while they're caring for patients or perform-
ing surgery. "The ultimate goal of this technology is to make their
lives in the OR easier," says Ms. Lindenauer.
While also allowing them to shout out requests for their favorite
songs, right? "Yes," she laughs. "We've gotten plenty of requests for
that."
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