Which of the following is an example of an emerging technology in healthcare?

• A. Wearable devices
• B. Stethoscope
• C. X-ray machine
• D. Bandage

Answer: (A)

Wearable devices illustrate a shift toward continuous, real-time health data collection and remote monitoring. By embedding sensors in everyday items like smartwatches and fitness bands, they capture data such as heart rate, rhythm, activity, sleep, and sometimes glucose or other metrics, then wirelessly transmit it to apps or cloud-based platforms. This enables real-time analytics, alerts, and integration with care plans, supporting proactive decision-making, early detection of problems, and remote patient monitoring—trends that are driving modern health care globally, including in Australia. The other tools listed are traditional, well-established technologies used for diagnosis or wound care, and they don’t embody the newer, data-driven, connected approach that characterizes emerging health technologies.