Investigating the Relationship Between Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence and Moral Sensitivity Among Nursing Students Publisher

Summary: Does enthusiasm for nursing AI relate to ethics? A single-center survey found a weak link between AI attitudes and moral sensitivity, not causation. #Nursing #AIEthics

Sheikhzakaryaee N ; Shali M ; Saveh I B
Source: BMC Nursing Published:2026

Abstract

Introduction: Given the increasing use of artificial intelligence in the field of health and treatment, including nursing, it is necessary to draw students’ attention to this issue from the time of their education. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between attitudes towards artificial intelligence and moral sensitivity in nursing students. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on nursing students from the 2nd to 8th semester of nursing at Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences. Participants were enrolled in the study through a census method. Demographic and ethical sensitivity questionnaires and attitudes towards artificial intelligence were used. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods in SPSS-24 software. Results: Out of 155 participants, 61.29% had moderate moral sensitivity based on the Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire (MSQ), and 38.06% had low moral sensitivity. Regarding the Attitude toward Artificial Intelligence Questionnaire, 76.12% held a relatively favorable attitude and 19.36% a favorable one. A weak but statistically significant positive correlation was found between attitudes toward AI and moral sensitivity (*r* = 0.185, *p* = 0.012). Conclusion: Given the weak yet statistically significant relationship between attitudes toward AI and moral sensitivity, integrating AI ethics education and targeted educational workshops into undergraduate nursing curricula may help strengthen students’ preparedness for ethical AI use. However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the study’s cross-sectional design and single-center setting. © The Author(s) 2026.