Of the growing number of fields actively using artificial intelligence (AI) technology—including finance, manufacturing, marketing, and customer service—the field that arguably makes the most significant impact in our lives is healthcare. AI is supporting all healthcare sectors, simultaneously making nurses more efficient, elevating their level of care, and improving patient outcomes.  

Here we’ll examine some benefits (and a few challenges) that accompany AI’s introduction into the nursing profession. 

AI Benefits to the Nursing Industry 

Personalized Care 

AI can create care plans that are specific to each patient by processing unlimited amounts of patient data, enabling nurses to yield more favorable results from their care. 

Enhanced Diagnostic Capabilities  

While diagnostic services are often associated with equipment such as MRI machines, AI technology can assess medical data to help nurses deliver more precise diagnoses and corresponding treatment.  

A Look Ahead Through Predictive Analytics 

Nurses can use AI to forecast the likelihood of a patient’s condition declining, empowering them to initiate preemptive interventions.  

Expanded Coverage With Remote Monitoring 

AI-driven devices allow nurses to continuously monitor offsite patients’ health data in real time, including glucose level, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, weight, and body temperature. This cuts down on the number of required office visits and hospital stays, freeing up beds for patients in more critical need. 

Increased Efficiency Through Automated Documentation 

By capably and quickly handling routine but time-consuming administrative tasks, AI permits nurses to devote greater time and attention to patient concerns. 

Scheduling Capabilities That Take All Parties Into Consideration 

AI can quickly compare patient census and staff schedules to prevent shortfalls and ensure that patient needs align with staff availability.  

Enhanced Training 

It can be costly and logistically difficult for nurses to refine their skills on living subjects when new medical techniques and technologies become available. AI learning tools are customizable to the user and can allow nurses to practice with lifelike simulations. 

AI Challenges for the Nursing Industry 

Inadequate Training 

While AI tools are beneficial in educating nurses about new treatments, nurses must first learn to use the technology. Many nurses working today, especially those who’ve been in the field for years, have never received much training in AI-powered medical devices, which can be complex. New training in the proper use of these tools is often a necessity, and achieving full proficiency can take time. 

Cyberattacks 

Because AI is a data-driven technology, it carries all the concerns of our electronic society, including unauthorized access to private, HIPAA-protected patient information. Cyber intrusions can sometimes temporarily rob nurses of vital information related to patient care, potentially endangering patient health. 

Patient Concerns 

While technology has always been at the heart of advanced healthcare—MRI, CT scans, dialysis machines, etc.—some patients may have reservations about AI in the room. The technology may still be relatively new to some, and discourse around it remains controversial. 

Face the Future of Healthcare as a Nursing Leader 

The dynamic field of nursing needs skilled leaders. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CCNE-accredited online RN to BSN program allows you to hone leadership expertise centered on delivering optimal health outcomes with the flexibility your busy schedule requires.  

Through courses such as Informatics and Innovation (NURS 4344), you can explore the critical intersection of nursing and technology. Health informatics relies heavily on AI, particularly in its use of data analytics and predictive analytics. 

Look to UTPB’s online RN to BSN if you want to: 

  • Complete a respected degree anywhere at your pace, accommodating your shift hours and personal responsibilities. 
  • Learn from faculty made up of extensively degreed and experienced nurses. 
  • Fulfill your clinical requirements at a facility near you with your preferred qualifying preceptor.  
  • Graduate with an optional Nurse Manager Certificate from the esteemed Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. 

Find out more about our online RN to BSN program and apply today! 

Sources: 

https://www.myamericannurse.com/ai-artificial-intelligence-in-nursing/
https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/artificial-intelligence-medicine
https://www.myamericannurse.com/how-artificial-intelligence-is-transforming-the-future-of-nursing/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7597764/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10492460/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10733565/
https://marymount.edu/blog/how-ai-is-transforming-patient-care-for-nurses/?utm_source=chatgpt.com