ChatGPT in Nursing: Applications, Advantages, and Challenges in Education, Research, and Clinical Practice

Abstract

The incorporation of AI-supported language models into the healthcare sector holds significant potential to revolutionize nursing education, research, and clinical practice. Within this framework, ChatGPT has emerged as a valuable tool for personalizing educational materials, enhancing academic productivity, expediting clinical decision-making processes, and optimizing research efficiency. In the realm of nursing education, ChatGPT offers numerous advantages, including the preparation of course content, facilitation of student assessments, and the development of simulation-based learning environments. Furthermore, it enhances pedagogical effectiveness through its ability to engage with students in real time and provide tailored learning experiences. In research processes, it supports researchers in tasks such as literature review, data analysis, and preparation of ethical documents; it also facilitates labor-intensive processes such as thematic coding, especially in qualitative analysis. In clinical applications, it can be used to prepare patient information materials, create care plans, and strengthen nurse-patient communication. However, ChatGPT has limitations, such as information reliability, ethical appropriateness, lack of empathy, and the risk of users developing over-reliance. Therefore, a careful, critical, and ethical approach should be adopted for the integration of ChatGPT into the nursing discipline. In conclusion, ChatGPT offers significant opportunities to enhance nursing education, research, and practice, yet it should not substitute for professional judgment or human compassion. Its application must be steered by ethical standards and a critical mindset. Incorporating AI literacy into nursing curricula and establishing clear guidelines for its use can ensure its effective and responsible implementation while maintaining the profession's humanistic essence.