Artificial intelligence readiness profiles associated with critical thinking among nursing interns: A latent profile...

To identify distinct profiles of artificial intelligence (AI) readiness among nursing interns, to explore the relationship between these profiles and critical thinking ability, and to examine the factors associated with profile membership.

The integration of AI into healthcare and nursing education necessitates that nursing students develop AI readiness. Critical thinking is a core competency for clinical decision-making and professional practice. Understanding how AI readiness profiles relate to critical thinking can inform tailored educational interventions.

A cross-sectional survey study.

A total of 458 nursing interns were recruited via convenience sampling from a teaching hospital in China. Data were collected using the Medical Artificial Intelligence Readiness Scale and the Simplified Critical Thinking Scale. Latent profile analysis (LPA) and multinomial logistic regression were performed.

Three distinct AI readiness profiles were identified: "Cognition-Deficient Type" (35.6%), "Moderately Balanced Type" (48.0%), and "Comprehensive Excellence Type" (16.4%). Critical thinking scores differed significantly across profiles (p < 0.001), with higher AI readiness associated with stronger critical thinking ability. In terms of other related variables, there were significant differences between the groups in terms of satisfaction with the nursing profession, exposure to AI-medicine interdisciplinary course, attitude towards AI application in healthcare (p < 0.001).

Nursing interns exhibit heterogeneous AI readiness levels, which are positively associated with critical thinking. Tailored educational strategies should be developed to enhance both AI readiness and critical thinking skills.