In the current landscape of healthcare, there exists a noteworthy shift characterized by the rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI). A recent study titled, “Empowering nurses in the AI era: investigating the interplay between professionalism, AI readiness, and self-efficacy,” authored by El-Bassal, El-Sayed, and Elgamal, captures the essence of this transformation. Scheduled for publication in 2025 in the journal BMC Nursing, the research delves into the implications of AI in nursing practice and explores how these technological advancements can empower nurses, enhance their professional efficacy, and ultimately improve patient care.
The introduction of AI in healthcare isn’t merely a trend; it signifies a paradigm shift that alters how healthcare professionals approach their roles and responsibilities. In particular, nurses, who form the backbone of patient care, must navigate this dynamic landscape while maintaining their core values of empathy, professionalism, and patient advocacy. The research by El-Bassal and colleagues aims to elucidate the balance between leveraging AI technologies and upholding the essential elements of nursing professionalism.
One of the focal points of the study addresses the concept of AI readiness among nursing professionals. AI readiness refers to the preparedness of healthcare providers to integrate artificial intelligence tools into their practice. This includes not only familiarization with the technology but also an understanding of its ethical implications and practical applications. The findings suggest that a robust framework for educating nurses on AI tools can significantly enhance their comfort level and confidence in utilizing these technologies in everyday patient care scenarios.
Self-efficacy, or the belief in one’s abilities to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments, plays a pivotal role in how nurses engage with AI. The research highlights that when nurses feel confident in their technological competencies, they are more likely to embrace AI solutions that enhance their workflow and patient interactions. Increased self-efficacy can lead to better outcomes, not only for the nurses themselves but also for the patients whose care they manage. Thus, the symbiosis between self-efficacy and AI readiness is underlined as a significant area for further exploration.
Professionalism remains a cornerstone of nursing, and as AI intertwines with clinical practice, it poses challenges and opportunities to this foundational aspect. The study provides insights into how embracing AI does not diminish the nurse’s role but rather expands it. By adopting AI-enabled tools, nurses can allocate more time to direct patient interactions and complex decision-making tasks, thereby enhancing their professional standing.
Furthermore, the research sheds light on how organizational support is crucial in facilitating this transition. Healthcare institutions are urged to create environments that foster AI adoption by investing in training and development programs. The notion of cultivating a culture of innovation within nursing teams is paramount; when organizations prioritize AI readiness, they empower their staff to innovate and utilize AI technologies effectively.
The implications of this research extend beyond the nursing community; they suggest a broader need to rethink healthcare delivery in the AI age. As the healthcare sector evolves, it calls for a reevaluation of traditional roles and responsibilities to adapt to the capabilities provided by AI. This transformation advocates for a more collaborative approach between AI systems and nursing professionals, driving improved health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of research in shaping evidence-based practices. As the body of research around AI in nursing expands, it is essential for nursing scholars to explore this intersection further. The ongoing investigation into the effects of AI on nursing practice will enrich the discipline and provide valuable insights into best practices for integrating technology into patient care.
El-Bassal et al. offer critical recommendations for future research that could pave the way for realizing the full potential of AI in nursing. These include longitudinal studies that track the long-term effects of AI integration on nursing practices, patient outcomes, and overall workplace dynamics. By prioritizing exploratory studies in diverse healthcare settings, researchers can gather comprehensive data that informs policy decisions and enhances education frameworks.
In conclusion, the research carried out by El-Bassal, El-Sayed, and Elgamal serves as a clarion call for embracing AI in nursing as an ally rather than a replacement. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the nursing profession must adapt, ensuring that the core tenets of care are amplified, not diminished, by technology. The journey towards AI empowerment in nursing is a collaborative one, requiring commitment from educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and the professionals who dedicate their lives to patient care.
Subject of Research: AI’s impact on nursing professionalism, readiness, and self-efficacy.
Article Title: Empowering nurses in the AI era: investigating the interplay between professionalism, AI readiness, and self-efficacy.
Article References:
El-Bassal, N.A.M., El-Sayed, A.A.I. & Elgamal, H.G. Empowering nurses in the AI era: investigating the interplay between professionalism, AI readiness, and self-efficacy.
BMC Nurs 24, 1287 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-025-03896-y
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: AI in nursing, professionalism, self-efficacy, healthcare technology.
