Perceptions and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence in Nursing Practice among Nurses at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract Background: This study explored nurses' perceptions and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in nursing practice among nurses at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria. As AI technologies become increasingly integrated into healthcare systems globally, it is essential to understand how frontline healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, interact with these innovations. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected from 248 nurses using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations were used for data analysis. Results: The findings showed that nurses' perceptions of AI were largely positive. The perception item means ranged from 3.0 to 3.4, with a grand mean of 3.2 and standard deviation of 0.9, indicating that nurses recognized AI's potential to improve patient care, reduce workload, and enhance decision-making accuracy. However, the level of actual use of AI tools in practice was low. Item means for utilization ranged from 2.0 to 2.3, with a grand mean of 2.1 (SD = 0.9), indicating limited engagement with AI technologies. Conclusion: The findings highlight the urgent need for AI-specific education, training workshops, and the development of clear policies to guide AI integration. Institutions must invest in infrastructure, promote nurse involvement in AI development, and address barriers to foster effective adoption. Ensuring nurses are prepared for AI integration is critical to achieving a balanced and ethically sound evolution of nursing practice in the digital era.