Implementation of an Educational Program for Operating Room Nurses to Improve Perception and Attitudes towards Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Nursing Practice

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Lecturer of Adult Health Nursing Department (Critical Care Nursing), Faculty of Nursing, Helwan University, Egypt

2 Assistant Professor of Critical Care Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

3 Assistant Professor of Adult Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Helwan University, Egypt

Abstract

Background: In the fast-changing field of healthcare, incorporating artificial intelligence has tremendous potential to transform nursing practice, especially within the operating room setting.Aim: The present research aimed to evaluate the effect of the implementation of an educational program for operating room nurses to improve perception and attitudes toward integrating artificial intelligence in nursing practice. Research design: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a single group assessed before and after the intervention. Setting: The study was conducted in the operating department of El-Araby Hospital, affiliated with Menoufia Governorate in Egypt. Subject: A convenience sample of all available nurses (n=50) working in the operating room at the previously mentioned facility was selected. Tools: The study employed two data collection tools: Tool I, a Structured Self-Administered Questionnaire for Nurses, and Tool II, the Nurses’ Attitude Toward Artificial Intelligence Scale. Results: The findings indicate that over two-thirds of the nurses had a poor perception prior to the program’s implementation. However, following the program, about three-quarters of the nurses showed a good perception, reflecting a highly significant improvement. Additionally, most nurses initially displayed a negative attitude toward artificial intelligence, but the majority exhibited a positive attitude after the program, highlighting a highly significant change. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the critical role of education in influencing nurses' perceptions and attitudes toward integrating artificial intelligence in the operating room. The results reveal a strong, statistically significant correlation between nurses' attitudes and perceptions before and after the program, indicating a highly significant difference. Recommendation: Create evidence-based practice guidelines and protocols that define the appropriate use of artificial intelligence technologies in the operating room. Establish multidisciplinary teams that include nurses, technologists, and AI experts to foster cross-disciplinary knowledge exchange and encourage innovative approaches to enhance patient care.

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