Abstract
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly embedded in healthcare systems, creating new opportunities to enhance efficiency, optimize workflows, and strengthen patient monitoring. At the same time, its integration raises important questions about ethics, trust, and the preservation of humanistic values in nursing practice.Aim: To investigate nursing students’ awareness, attitudes, trust, and visions regarding the integration of AI in healthcare and nursing practice.Methods: A descriptive cross‑sectional design was applied, involving 140 nursing students. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire that explored awareness, attitudes, trust, and expectations regarding AI in healthcare. The analysis combined descriptive statistics with inferential techniques, including correlation and regression, to identify relationships among the variables.Results: Seventy‑two percent of participants had heard of AI in medicine, but knowledge levels were moderate (M = 3.3). While 43% believed AI could support nurses and 66% saw potential for improved patient care, 60% expressed discomfort with AI‑led care. Empathy and human contact were rated as highly important (M = 3.6 and M = 3.7 respectively), and 83% rejected full replacement of nurses. Trust was limited, with only 32% believing AI reduces medical errors. A majority (57%) envisioned a human‑centered future, with AI serving as a supportive tool rather than a substitute.Conclusion: Nursing students recognize the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) but remain cautious, emphasizing humanistic values and expressing skepticism about safety and trust. They envision a human‑centered future where AI supports nursing practice without replacing its essential human role, highlighting the need for balanced integration through education, policy, and further research.