Robotic surgical nurses' perceptions of artificial intelligence: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Surgical Nursing
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

Background:

• The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into surgical settings is rapidly evolving.
• Understanding the perspectives of frontline staff, such as robotic surgical nurses, is crucial for successful AI implementation.
• This study addresses the gap in knowledge regarding nurses' experiences with AI in robotic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore robotic surgical nurses' perceptions and experiences with artificial intelligence (AI).
• To investigate nurses' views on AI's impact on their professional roles and patient care processes.
• To identify challenges and facilitators for AI adoption in robotic surgical nursing.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research design utilizing thematic analysis.
• Face-to-face interviews conducted with 13 robotic surgical nurses.
• Data analysis followed a six-step thematic analysis process adhering to COREQ guidelines.

Main Results:

• Four emergent themes: AI's effects on nursing, nurses' perspectives on AI, AI's patient impact, and adaptation processes.
• Nurses perceive AI as capable of enhancing care processes and patient safety.
• Concerns were raised regarding AI's potential to neglect subjective care aspects like empathy and human touch.

Conclusions:

• Robotic surgical nurses generally adopt a positive view of AI as a supportive technology.
• Concerns exist that AI might overshadow professional nursing roles and diminish human-centered care quality.
• Continuous training and institutional support are vital for effective AI adaptation in robotic surgery.