Comprehensive Summary
This article explores how the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in healthcare is reshaping nursing practice and health policy. The authors examine federal initiatives, such as the 2025 AI Action Plan, alongside private sector innovations, to assess their effects on care delivery. The analysis highlights that AI can improve clinical accuracy such as medication assessments and drug interaction identification, while potentially reducing labor costs. However, current federal policies prioritize rapid deployment and deregulation over patient safety and health equity. Evidence from nursing policy dialogues shows that AI may unintentionally worsen disparities in vulnerable populations due to algorithmic bias. The authors argue that a more deliberate approach is needed, involving comprehensive regulation, community-centered governance, and active nursing leadership to ensure AI complements, rather than compromises, holistic patient care.
Outcomes and Implications
The findings of this study suggest that while AI holds promise for improving efficiency and precision in healthcare, it cannot replace the ethical and compassionate judgment of nursing professionals. Policymakers must address gaps in regulatory oversight and consider the social and economic impacts of AI deployment, particularly on underserved communities. Nursing leaders play a crucial role in shaping AI development to ensure that technology enhances patient-centered care rather than prioritizing efficiency at the expense of equity. For the future of healthcare, integrating AI responsibly requires collaboration between federal agencies, healthcare providers, and the communities they serve.