Hoitokeinoja

Hoitokeinoja is a Finnish term used to describe the means or tools used in patient care to prevent, relieve, or treat illness and to support everyday functioning and well-being. The concept functions as an umbrella for approaches, substances, devices and procedures employed in health care, with an emphasis on matching the chosen means to the individual patient within care planning.

The range of hoitokeinoja includes medicines (lääkkeet), medical devices and equipment, nursing procedures (hoitotoimenpiteet) such as wound care and injections, rehabilitative methods (fysikaalinen terapia, exercise-based interventions), and supportive measures like counseling and education. Non-pharmacological interventions such as proper nutrition, hygiene, and social support are also considered part of hoitokeinoja when they contribute to patient outcomes.

Implementation is guided by clinical guidelines, safety regulations, and evidence-based practice. The selection of hoitokeinoja depends on clinical assessment, diagnosis, severity of illness, patient preferences, and potential risks. Documentation in patient records tracks which hoitokeinoja are used, the rationale behind choices, and the outcomes observed.

Historically, the concept developed alongside modern nursing, pharmacology, and medical technology during the 20th century and continues to evolve with new therapies and devices. Today hoitokeinoja represent a practical framework for organizing, standardizing, and individualizing care in hospitals, clinics, and home-based settings.