Introduction: Communication plays a crucial role in nursing, as it contributes to safer, more effective, and more accurate patient care. It is especially vital in intensive care units (ICUs), where patients are often in critical condition and unable to speak due to intubation or tracheostomy. In such situations, the use of alternative communication methods becomes essential. One modern solution that is increasingly being implemented is eye-tracking technology, which allows patients to express their thoughts and needs by directing their gaze. Purpose: The aim of this thesis is to explore the possibilities that eye-tracking technology offers in facilitating communication between non-verbal patients and nurses. Methods: A descriptive method with a qualitative approach was used to review foreign professional literature published between 2014 and 2025. Results: The analysis of 10 scientific articles revealed that eye-tracking technology enables effective alternative communication for intubated and tracheostomized patients by enhancing the expression of needs and improving psychosocial comfort. Both patients and healthcare professionals confirmed the usability of the technology, highlighting its quick, safe, and non-invasive application in clinical settings even without complex calibration. Despite technical challenges such as gaze detection or limited selection options, these devices significantly improve communication quality and may contribute to reduced hospitalization duration and delirium occurrence. Studies also confirm the technology's potential in optimizing work processes and training healthcare personnel in intensive care settings. Discussion and conclusion: Eye-tracking technology is increasingly recognized as an effective tool for improving communication with non-verbal patients, especially in intensive care units. Studies confirm that this technology enables patients to express basic needs and emotions, while also providing healthcare workers with better insight into cognitive status and aiding in the early detection of issues such as delirium. Despite its many benefits, challenges remain, including technical limitations, the need for staff training, financial inaccessibility, and logistical complexity in clinical environments. Ethical concerns regarding privacy and the processing of sensitive data are also present, making it essential to develop clear protocols and include users in interface design. Sustainable and effective implementation will require further research, appropriate strategy, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
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