Professional Adaptation to AI-Based Nursing Systems: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study Among Novice Outpatient Nurses
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Abstract
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare has significantly transformed clinical practices, particularly within nursing services. While existing research has focused on technical adoption, little is known about how novice nurses experience their adaptation to AI-based nursing systems in outpatient care. This study addresses that gap by asking: How do novice nurses make sense of their professional roles during early encounters with AI in clinical settings? Using an interpretative phenomenological approach, this study explores the lived experiences of eight novice nurses working with AI-assisted systems. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis to uncover emotional, cognitive, and professional dimensions of adaptation. Three key themes emerged: emotional turbulence in the initial phase, the development of adaptive strategies, and the reshaping of professional identity. Nurses described feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and eventual empowerment as they navigated unfamiliar technological environments. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of how digital systems influence early professional development in nursing. The study underscores the need for targeted mentorship, emotional support programs, and policy frameworks that promote both technological competence and psychological well-being. Future research may explore long-term impacts of AI exposure on professional identity formation.
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