title: [Health Technology Dependency: A Concept Analysis].
abstract: Health technology dependence is a widely recognized concept that refers to the utilization of technology, including drugs, equipment, instruments, and related devices, to compensate for a physical disability or to prevent the progression of a disability. Although technology may significantly prolong the life of a patient, technology may also increase the psychological pressure of these patients and the burdens of their caregivers. There is a current dearth of related research and discussions related to the concept of "health technology dependency". Therefore, the present paper uses the strategies of concept analysis described by Walker & Avant (2010) to analyze this concept. The characteristic definition of health technology dependence addresses individuals who: (1) currently live with health technology, (2) may perceive physical or psychological burdens due to health technology, and (3) feel physical and psychological well-being when coping positively with their health technology dependency and, further, regard health technology as a part of their body. Further, the present paper uses case examples to help analyze the general concept. It is hoped that nurses may better understand the concept of "health technology dependency", consider the concerns of health-technology-dependent patients and their families, and develop relevant interventions to promote the well-being of these patients and their families.
authors.affiliation: MSN, RN, Instructor, Department of Nursing, Ching Kuo Institute of Management and Health, Taiwan, ROC.
authors.forename: Miao-Yi
authors.initials: MY
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.affiliation: MSN, RN, Instructor, Department of Nursing, Chung-Jen Junior College of Nursing, Health Sciences, and Management, and Doctoral Student, Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taiwan, ROC.
authors.forename: Ting-Yu
authors.initials: TY
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.affiliation: PhD, RN, Director, Department of Nursing, Tri-Service General Hospital, and Adjunct Associate Professor, School of Nursing, National Defense Medical Center, Taiwan, ROC.
authors.forename: Chi-Wen
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Kao
mesh_terms: D020811:Biomedical Technology; D006801:Humans
keywords: concept analysis; health technology; health technology dependence