Artificial Intelligence in Nursing: The Leadership Readiness Gap

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Informatics
• Nursing Leadership
• Artificial Intelligence

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into healthcare, encompassing technologies like machine learning and natural language processing.
• AI tools are intended to support, not replace, nursing's core values of clinical judgment, ethical reasoning, and relational care.
• A gap exists in nurse leaders' confidence and preparedness for AI use and governance, indicating a readiness challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the leadership readiness and technology adoption challenges associated with AI in nursing.
• To highlight the critical role of nurse leaders in establishing AI governance and competency development.
• To emphasize that AI in nursing is primarily a leadership and governance issue, not just a technological one.

Main Methods:

• Survey of Canadian Academy of Nursing Fellows (n=57) to assess AI encounter, confidence, and concerns.
• Analysis of current nursing informatics competencies regarding AI.
• Commentary synthesizing findings and expert opinions on AI in nursing.

Main Results:

• Many nurse leaders have encountered AI but lack confidence in its use and governance.
• Existing governance structures are underdeveloped to support nurses' responsibilities in assessing AI outputs and ensuring equitable care.
• Key concerns include algorithmic bias, ethical use, equity, and privacy threats associated with AI.

Conclusions:

• AI in nursing requires a focus on leadership competency and robust governance structures.
• Nurse leaders must actively shape AI policies, evaluation standards, and competency development.
• Establishing clear boundaries for nursing judgment is crucial for the safe, ethical, and accountable integration of AI in healthcare.