Introduction:
Artificial intelligence has recently emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, reshaping how care is delivered. Its applications range from diagnostic support to data management. However, the integration of artificial intelligence presents significant challenges for nurses, who are essential in providing patient care. Understanding nurses' perceptions and concerns regarding artificial intelligence in clinical settings is crucial to ensure its use maintains both care quality and humanization.

Objective:
This study aims to analyze nurses' perceptions regarding the integration of artificial intelligence into the caregiving process, identifying key advantages, challenges, and implications.

Methods:
The study employed a mixed-methods approach, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Initially, an online survey was conducted using snowball sampling among nurses from various healthcare institutions in Portugal (n=300). The survey included inquiries about knowledge and experience with artificial intelligence, perceptions of artificial intelligence effectiveness and safety in healthcare, and perceived impacts on professional practice. Subsequently, 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted with randomly selected nurses to delve deeper into their perceptions and experiences on the topic.

Results:
Quantitative findings revealed that 85% of nurses have some degree of knowledge about artificial intelligence, although 35% have practical experience with artificial intelligence tools. Nurses recognized various advantages of artificial intelligence, including improved diagnostic accuracy (78%), optimization of treatment plans (72%), and reduction of administrative workload (65%). However, significant challenges were also identified, such as a lack of specific training (70%), concerns regarding patient data privacy (60%), and resistance to change (55%). Results from the interview analysis corroborated the quantitative data and provided additional insights. Many nurses expressed concerns that artificial intelligence might dehumanize care but acknowledged that, when well implemented, it can serve as a valuable complementary tool. There was a consensus on the need for continuous and adequate training to maximize the benefits of artificial intelligence and mitigate associated risks.

Discussion:
The results show a positive perception of artificial intelligence among nurses, with recognition of its benefits, such as diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. However, the low practical experience with these technologies, coupled with the need for specific training, poses a barrier to effective adoption. Data privacy is a central concern that requires rigorous attention to ensure trust in the use of digital tools. Moreover, resistance to change indicates the need to foster a culture of acceptance, where artificial intelligence is viewed as support for clinical practice rather than a threat to the humanization of care. Therefore, continuous education is vital to prepare nurses for the integration of artificial intelligence into daily practice, promoting more informed and patient-centered healthcare.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Nursing, Patient Care.