ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE AMONG NURSES IN PAKISTAN: IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Abstract

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into healthcare systems worldwide, with the potential to enhance clinical decision-making, improve patient outcomes, and reduce workload. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a critical role in the adoption and effective use of AI technologies. However, limited evidence exists regarding nurses’ knowledge and acceptance of AI in developing healthcare settings such as Pakistan.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and acceptance of artificial intelligence among nurses and to examine the association between AI knowledge, AI acceptance, and selected demographic variables at Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 235 registered nurses using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, AI knowledge, and AI acceptance. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while chi-square tests examined associations between variables. Pearson correlation analysis was applied to assess the relationship between AI knowledge and acceptance. Statistical significance was set at p < .05.

Results

The majority of nurses demonstrated a moderate level of AI knowledge (43.4%) and acceptance (46.4%). AI knowledge and acceptance were significantly associated with educational level and clinical experience (p < .05). No significant association was found with gender. A strong positive correlation was observed between AI knowledge and AI acceptance (r = 0.61, p < .001), indicating that higher knowledge was associated with greater acceptance of AI in nursing practice.

Conclusion

The study concludes that while nurses exhibit moderate awareness and acceptance of AI, significant knowledge gaps remain. Integrating AI education into nursing curricula and providing continuous professional training may enhance nurses’ readiness for effective AI adoption in healthcare.