Ethical boundaries and data-sharing practices in AI-enhanced nursing: An Arab perspective

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Technology
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) offers advancements in clinical decision-making and operational efficiency in nursing.
• AI integration presents challenges including ethical dilemmas, data privacy concerns, and technical issues.
• Addressing these challenges requires continuous education, robust ethical guidelines, and transparent data-sharing practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the ethical boundaries and data-sharing practices in AI-enhanced nursing.
• To understand the perspective of Arab nurses on AI integration in their practice.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative approach adhering to Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guidelines.
• Purposive sampling of 14 registered nurses in Abha City, Saudi Arabia.
• Data collection through semistructured interviews, observational data, and document analysis, followed by thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Nurses reported AI enhances clinical decision-making and efficiency through task automation.
• Identified ethical challenges include conflicts between AI recommendations and patient preferences, training needs, and resource constraints.
• Emphasized the importance of maintaining human interaction and empathy in nursing care.

Conclusions:

• Findings align with existing literature on AI benefits and challenges in nursing.
• Ethical dilemmas, especially concerning data privacy and informed consent, require careful management.
• Continuous education, adequate resources, and clear ethical frameworks are crucial for successful AI integration in nursing.