10. Navigating Difficult Conversations in Healthcare: The Use of AI Chatbots in Training Undergraduate and Graduate Nursing Students

Nursing students at the undergraduate and graduate levels benefit from opportunities to practice having difficult conversations with patients and families. Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications provide a unique opportunity for learners to gain experience and hone this skill prior to human interaction. The purpose of this research is to develop a tiered experiential approach to preparing nursing students for difficult conversations prior to interacting with real-life standardized patients. Our team aims to adapt, pilot, and evaluate an AI-based communication tool for student engagement in practicing difficult conversations. Approximately 80 undergraduate and graduate nursing students will first practice difficult conversations via an AI chatbot before engaging with a standardized patient (appropriately leveled for students). Rubrics will be utilized for course outcomes evaluation and learners will complete a post-activity survey to determine student perceptions regarding the usability and efficacy of the AI-based communication tool.

AI Chatbots

Navigating Difficult Conversations in Healthcare 

Beginner

Community

Women in Statistics and Data Science 2025