Union nurses rally for greater staff, patient protection amid AI rollout

Editor's Note

Thousands of RNs nationwide plan to rally in support of safer staff and patients today, January 16, amid widespread introduction of technologies driven by artificial intelligence (AI), according to National Nurses United (NNU).

NNU reported on the plans January 14, noting that more than 100,000 members of the largest US nurses’ union are undergoing contract negotiations with employers. Advocacy action focuses on safer staffing levels and expanded patient protections in industry they criticize for putting profits over patient care and staff well-being.

Nurse-to-patient ratios and workplace violence prevention plans are essential, the nurses argue. Meanwhile, a 2024 NNU survey revealed that 60% of nurses distrust their employers to prioritize safety in AI deployment. Many reported discrepancies between AI assessments and their own clinical evaluations.