Exploring the Intersection of Nursing Leadership and Artificial Intelligence: Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Informatics
• Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into healthcare settings.
• Nurse leaders' role in shaping AI's development and impact is critical.
• Limited understanding exists regarding nurse leaders' perceptions and experiences with AI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review on the intersection of nursing leadership and AI in healthcare.
• To map existing evidence, identify key concepts, and highlight knowledge gaps.
• To inform future research and practice regarding AI in nursing leadership.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review guided by Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR checklist.
• Systematic search of 4 databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus) and gray literature (2014-2025).
• Inclusion criteria: nurse leaders, AI technology, healthcare settings; 26 articles analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Main Results:

• Analysis of 26 articles (8 empirical, 18 conceptual/theoretical).
• Six key data categories emerged: digital transformation, AI's impact on nursing roles, ethical considerations, AI as a leadership facilitator, AI education, and work environment influence.
• Predominantly conceptual articles, with limited empirical studies, particularly from Canada.

Conclusions:

• Nurse leaders are essential for shaping AI integration in healthcare.
• A significant gap exists in research to guide practice, policy, and education for AI in nursing leadership.
• Increased investment in nurse-led research and leadership development is needed for ethical and equitable AI implementation.