Read the following passage carefully :
(1) Robotics is transforming the healthcare landscape by revolutionizing the way medical procedures are executed, patients are managed and hospital operations are streamlined. The seamless integration of artificial intelligence (AI), engineering and automation has catalysed the emergence of cutting-edge robotic technologies that are making healthcare more precise, efficient and accessible than ever before. From surgical theatres to outpatient clinics, robotics is enhancing workflow efficiency and significantly improving clinical outcomes.
(2) Among its most notable applications is robot-assisted surgery. Advanced systems such as the ‘Da Vinci Surgical Robot’ empower surgeons with superior visualization, refined control and pinpoint accuracy. These minimally invasive techniques reduce surgical trauma, minimize complications and shorten recovery periods. Robotic surgery has proven especially transformative in intricate disciplines like cardiothoracic, gynaecological and neurosurgical procedures where precision is paramount.
(3) In the realm of rehabilitation therapy, robotics play a crucial role in helping patients regain motor functions following strokes, spinal cord injuries or orthopaedic surgeries. Devices like robotic exoskeletons and motion-guided therapy systems provide consistent, repetitive movements that are vital for neuro-muscular recovery — often surpassing the capabilities of manual therapy. These systems also enable real-time monitoring and adaptive treatment planning, offering a more individualized and effective rehabilitation process.
(4) Hospital automation is another rapidly expanding frontier. Robots are increasingly being deployed to perform routine yet essential functions such as medicine delivery, room disinfection and food distribution. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their use in contactless service delivery proved invaluable in reducing exposure risks and maintaining stringent hygiene protocols. The advent of diagnostic robotics further underscores the transformative power of AI in medicine. These intelligent systems analyse medical data and imagery with exceptional accuracy, facilitating early detection of conditions such as cancer, cardio-vascular disease and diabetes. By enhancing diagnostic speed and reliability, they significantly contribute to timely and effective intervention.
(5) In the field of geriatric care, assistive robots are being developed to support elderly individuals with medication reminders, vital sign monitoring and social engagement. These robots offer not only physical assistance but also emotional support, helping combat loneliness and cognitive decline — especially for those living alone or with limited human interaction.
(6) While the integration of robotics into healthcare does pose challenges — such as substantial implementation costs, the need for specialized training and concerns about diminished human connection — the long-term advantages far outweigh these limitations.
(7) As healthcare systems worldwide strive for greater accuracy, efficiency and inclusivity, robotics stands out as a catalyst for innovation. Its expanding role — from surgical precision to hospital automation and personalized patient care — heralds a future where technology and empathy coalesce to create a more advanced and humane healthcare ecosystem. (427 words)
According to paragraph 1, what impact has robotics had on healthcare operations ? Mention any two.
What does the use of the phrase ‘from surgical theatres to outpatient clinics’ convey about the scope of robotics in healthcare ? (Paragraph 1)
The phrase ‘superior visualization, refined control and pinpoint accuracy’ emphasizes the advanced capabilities of robotic systems in surgery. (Paragraph 2)
Choose the correct response from the two options (A) or (B) to complete the following sentence.
This highlights that robotic-assisted surgery primarily enhances __________.
How does the writer emphasize the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery ? (Paragraph 2)
Complete the following suitably with one reason, with reference to paragraph 3.
Today, rehabilitation therapy is a more individualized and effective process because __________.
Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 4.
necessary : essential : : emergence : __________
Support with evidence from paragraph 4, how robotics are being deployed to help maintain strict sanitation protocol.
Why is there a need to develop assistive robots ? (Paragraph 5)
The integration of robotics into healthcare according to the given text is ironic because ___________.
Which of the following best explains why robotics is considered a catalyst for innovation in healthcare despite its challenges ? (Para 7)