The evolution of publications on applications of artificial intelligence to nursing care: A bibliometric and visual mapping approach

Abstract

Background: The use of artificial intelligence in nursing care is advancing rapidly and could improve areas such as nursing management, care quality, safety management and team communication. Purpose: This study conducted a bibliometric analysis to explore the characteristics, priorities, and trends in the use of artificial intelligence in nursing. Methods: A total of 434 publications from 2001 to 2025 were analyzed, with a notable peak in interest observed in 2024. Discussion: The findings demonstrate the growing adoption of artificial intelligence in nursing, with expectations for continued expansion in the literature. Most studies have concentrated on education and workforce transformation, while research on patient outcomes and care quality remains limited. Conclusion: Future research should focus on clinical and outcome-based studies. To ensure the safe and effective integration of artificial intelligence, leaders in education, practice, and policy must support curriculum development, establish ethical guidelines, invest in infrastructure, and promote international collaboration. (c) 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.