Neonatal ıntensive care nurses' perceptions of artificial ıntelligence: A qualitative study on discharge education and family counseling

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to examine neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses’ perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly language models, and their impact on nursing practices. Background: AI is rapidly spreading in healthcare, transforming nursing practice. Understanding the role of AI in NICUs in the discharge process is crucial for understanding nurses’ perceptions of these technologies. Methods: The qualitative, phenomenological study used semi-structured interviews. Data were collected in a public hospital in Gaziantep from January to June 2024. Fifteen NICU nurses participated. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: Most nurses found AI to be a valuable tool for saving time and simplifying information delivery in clinical processes. However, concerns were raised about AI potentially reducing human interaction and weakening the use of professional judgment. Serious concerns about AI’s reliability and ethical implications were also expressed. Conclusions: AI is considered a potentially supportive tool in nursing practice, but its integration must consider the ethical implications and impact on the use of professional judgment. Nursing is based on human interactions and AI should be considered an additive tool to enhance care. Implications for practice and research: AI integration in nursing requires careful and balanced implementation. Future research should delve deeper into the ethical dimensions of AI and its long-term effects on nursing practices. Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.