Acceptance and Readiness of Critical Care Nurses to Use Artificial Intelligence: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

AIM: The aims of this study was to evaluate the acceptance and readiness of critical care nurses to use artificial intelligence (AI). BACKGROUND: AI is increasingly incorporated into clinical practice, offering the potential to revolutionize healthcare and significantly impact nursing practices. INTRODUCTION: Integration of AI into nursing practice depends on its acceptance and adoption, with the potential to transform health care, improve patients' outcomes, and support decision-making. METHODS: A cross-sectional research design was used to collect data from critical care nurses in general intensive care units of Alexandria University Hospital, Egypt, and King Abdul-Aziz Hospital, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, from May to July 2024. The minimum sample size was 279. Data were collected from 475 using an electronic Extended Technology Acceptance Model questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the relationships between the seven key constructs, including perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risks, external benefits, facilitating conditions, adoption intention, and readiness to use AI. This study adheres to the STROBE checklist. RESULTS: More than half of nurses in the study had never used AI. Most of them reported perceived usefulness and readiness for adopting AI. Critical care nurses' adoption intention has positive influences on their readiness to use AI. Perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, external benefits, and facilitating conditions can positively impact their readiness and adoption of using AI. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the importance of increasing nurses' awareness of AI applications in nursing practices. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY: The integration and adoption of AI into nursing practices will help improve the quality of patients' care, however, education and training is needed to promote knowledge and understanding of the topic Health policies should mandate a framework to ensure well-trained and confident usage of AI.