Cyberattacks on Healthcare: Nursing Preparedness and Patient Safety

• •Nurses play a critical role during cyber incidents but lack formal training.
• •Cyberattacks on healthcare can lead to severe patient safety risks.
• •The NIS2 Directive requires cybersecurity training for healthcare organizations.

Healthcare facilities are increasingly targeted by cyberattacks, jeopardizing patient safety and care continuity. Nurses, as frontline responders, often lack the necessary training to manage care during system downtimes caused by these attacks. The articles highlight the gap between awareness and practical skills among nursing professionals, emphasizing the need for formal cybersecurity training in nursing curricula. Cyber incidents can lead to severe operational disruptions, including medication errors and loss of clinical traceability. The NIS2 Directive mandates cybersecurity training for healthcare organizations, but implementation remains inconsistent across Europe. The WannaCry ransomware attack serves as a notable example of the extensive operational ramifications of such breaches. Current nursing education does not adequately prepare nurses for these challenges, necessitating urgent reforms. The proposed educational framework aims to enhance workforce readiness and improve patient safety during cyber incidents.