Artificial Intelligence and Quality of work life in the ICU: For better and for worse?

Abstract

Despite its recent emergence as a medical specialty, Critical Care offers a fertile ground for both technological innovation but also development of work-related stress due to its specific characteristics. The gradual implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) will have a considerable impact on the working conditions of all critical care professionals. It is imperative to deliberate on the repercussions that AI might have on Quality of work Life (QWL). Despite the paucity of research specifically examining the relationship between QWL and AI, the potential for a positive correlation exists. The potential of AI to enhance working conditions by reducing workload and increasing users' skills, autonomy and responsibilities is a subject that merits further investigation. Another potential application of this technology is as a tool for assessing QWL, although this is still in the experimental stage. As a tool whose power is still difficult to measure, AI could just as easily be detrimental to QWL. Consequently, it is imperative that its future integration is accompanied by studies on its possible consequences for QWL.