Artificial intelligence (AI) nurses are increasingly being used in hospitals to streamline tasks, monitor patients’ vital signs, and trigger step-by-step action plans for care. While some hospitals claim that AI is helping their nurses work more efficiently while addressing burnout and understaffing, nursing unions argue that this technology is overriding nurses’ expertise and degrading the quality of care patients receive.
Hippocratic AI, one of several companies offering AI nursing services, has created a friendly voice assistant like Ana that can help patients prepare for appointments and answer questions. However, unlike human nurses, AI assistants are available 24/7 in multiple languages and can sometimes generate false alarms or provide dangerous advice.
Nursing experts say that while AI can augment care, it’s essential to be cautious and ensure that the technology doesn’t replace the human element. Many hospitals are using AI assistants like Qventus, which contacts patients and health providers, send and receive medical records, and summarize their contents for human staffers.
The use of AI in hospitals is a complex issue, with some experts arguing that it can help in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited. Others, however, warn that the technology may not be effective for those who require more nuanced care, such as patients with severe illnesses or chronic conditions.
As the U.S. population ages and nurses retire, hospital administrators see AI filling a vital role: not taking over care, but helping nurses and doctors gather information and communicate with patients. However, more needs to be done to address concerns about burnout, understaffing, and the impact of AI on nursing expertise.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/artificial-intelligence-ai-nurses-hospitals-health-care-3e41c0a2768a3b4c5e002270cc2abe23