AI shows promise for addressing nursing workforce challenges

Editor's Note

Although the role of artificial intelligence is still evolving, early applications show significant potential to address challenges with burnout, staffing shortages, and high patient-to-nurse ratios, according to a January 10 article in Medscape.

Offering a broad overview of the state of AI in nursing, complete with expert testimony and examples, the article notes that nurses are overall optimistic about the technology. In a recent survey, two-thirds expressed that it could improve workloads and patient outcomes, citing value in areas such as medication management, patient education, and clinical decision support. However, 36% of nurses report a lack of knowledge about how to use AI tools, highlighting the need for education and training.

Administrative tasks—which are estimated to occupy as much as 15% of nurses’ shifts—are a key target for AI, Medscape reports. Tools such as transcription software and device integration have shown promise in reducing the time spent on documentation. Major health systems, including Mass General Brigham, Baptist Health, and Stanford Health Care, are deploying AI-powered tools for note-taking and clinical summarization.

However, concerns about ethical use, quality of care, and equity in AI adoption remain prevalent. As detailed in the article, critics emphasize that AI must align with the nursing profession’s core values and ethical standards. Efforts to involve nurses in AI tool development and deployment also are seen as critical for successful integration and acceptance, as is addressing equity issues.