Balancing Benefits and Risks of AI Adoption in Nursing Practice in Saudi Arabia

AIM: This study assessed the balance between the benefits and risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in nursing practice across multiple healthcare centres, focusing on innovative potential and ethical considerations. BACKGROUND: AI integration into healthcare presents various ethical challenges, particularly for nurses. Thus, it is important to ensure that AI adoption optimises patient care without compromising ethical norms. METHODS: This cross-sectional study assessed 246 nurses from three hospitals in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, through stratified random sampling. Data were collected on 6 December 2024 in person using five validated surveys: the Healthcare Technology Adoption Survey, Ethical Issues in Technology Usage Survey, Nursing Practice Perception Survey, Technology Acceptance Model Survey, and Data Privacy and Security Assessment. Correlation and regression analyses examined the relationships between factors and provided insights into technological integration in nursing practice. RESULTS: Nurses reported a moderate level of AI use, noting its benefits for patient care and workflow efficiency. However, primary concerns include data privacy and the potential for job displacement. The perceived usefulness of AI and ethical awareness were predictors of fewer ethical concerns. CONCLUSION: This study emphasises balancing AI adoption in nursing by integrating ethics with technology for optimal patient care. Healthcare institutions must enhance their ethical training to help nurses address AI challenges. Policymakers should improve AI adoption regulations.