The association between artificial intelligence anxiety and occupational anxiety among emergency department...

While the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare services has the potential to improve the quality of patient care and the efficiency of clinical processes, it can also lead to increased concerns among healthcare professionals in areas such as changes in professional roles, job security, and the sharing of ethical responsibilities. Emergency department personnel, who are already exposed to heavy workloads, time pressure, and rapid decision-making processes, are particularly vulnerable in this regard. In this context, the study aimed to examine the relationship between AI-related anxiety and occupational anxiety.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 250 nurses and paramedics working in emergency departments in Istanbul between January and April 2025. Data were collected using the Healthcare Worker Information Form, the Artificial Intelligence Anxiety Scale, and the Professional Anxiety Scale. Nonparametric tests and correlation analyses were performed.

The mean AI anxiety scale score was 43.27, indicating moderate anxiety, while sociotechnical blindness received the highest score. The average score on the Occupational Anxiety Scale was 78.02, reflecting moderate to high levels of anxiety. A significant positive correlation was found between AI anxiety and occupational anxiety, with the strongest correlation observed in socio-technical blindness.

AI anxiety is significantly associated with higher levels of occupational anxiety among emergency healthcare workers. Interventions aimed at reducing AI anxiety, enhancing confidence, and promoting professional autonomy are essential during AI implementation.