Patricia Benner’s model and artificial intelligence as a tool to strengthen skills in nursing interns

Genesis Lisbeth Jami Toapanta, Yeisy Cristina Guarate Coronado — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) progressive been incorporated into nursing education as an academic and clinical support tool, promoting autonomous learning, rapid access to information, and the strengthening of clinical reasoning. However, its integration must be analyzed through nursing theoretical models that allow understanding the progressive development of professional competencies. General objective: To analyze the level of competence of nursing students in the use of artificial intelligence in their academic activities according to Patricia Benner’s model. Methodology: A qualitative study with a hermeneutic phenomenological approach was conducted among rotating internship nursing students from the Nursing program at the Technical University of Ambato. Information was collected through 14 semi-structured interviews until data saturation was reached. Subsequently, thematic analysis was carried out following Braun and Clarke’s proposal. Results: The findings revealed different levels of competence in the use of AI, predominantly novice, advanced beginner, and competent levels. Participants mainly used tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini for academic activities, information searching, and support in clinical procedures. Likewise, a gradual progression in the use of AI was identified, evolving from basic academic activities toward applications more closely related to clinical care and the strengthening of professional reasoning. Discussion: The progressive integration of AI is related to the transition between the competency levels described by Patricia Benner, predominantly at the advanced beginner and competent levels. Likewise, participants considered that the progressive use of these tools contributes to the development of cognitive, academic, and clinical skills during their professional training. Conclusion: Artificial intelligence constitutes a support tool that contributes to the progressive strengthening of academic and clinical competencies in nursing students, promoting autonomous learning, rapid access to scientific information, and the development of clinical reasoning. General area of study: nursing. Specific area of study: Artificial intelligence in nursing. Type of item: original.

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Patricia Benner’s model and artificial intelligence as a tool to strengthen skills in nursing interns