Exploring Nurses' Behavioural Intention to Adopt AI Technology: The Perspectives of Social Influence, Perceived Job Stress and Human–Machine Trust

ABSTRACT Aim This study examines how social influence, human–machine trust and perceived job stress affect nurses' behavioural intentions towards AI‐assisted care technology adoption from a new perspective and framework. It also explores the interrelationships between different types of social influence and job stress dimensions to fill gaps in academic literature. Design A quantitative cross‐sectional study. Methods Five hospitals in Taiwan that had implemented AI solutions were selected using purposive sampling. The scales, adapted from relevant literature, were translated into Chinese and modified for context. Questionnaires were distributed to nurses via snowball sampling from May 15 to June 10, 2023. A total of 283 valid questionnaires were analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling method. Results Conformity, obedience and human–machine trust were positively correlated with behavioural intention, while compliance was negatively correlated. Perceived job stress did not significantly affect behavioural intention. Compliance was positively associated with all three job stress dimensions: job uncertainty, technophobia and time pressure, while obedience was correlated with job uncertainty. Conclusion Social influence and human–machine trust are critical factors in nurses' intentions to adopt AI technology. The lack of significant effects from perceived stress suggests that nurses' personal resources mitigate potential stress associated with AI implementation. The study reveals the complex dynamics regarding different types of social influence, human–machine trust and job stress in the context of AI adoption in healthcare. Impact This research extends beyond conventional technology acceptance models by incorporating perspectives on organisational internal stressors and AI‐related job stress. It offers insights into the coping mechanisms during the pre‐adaption AI process in nursing, highlighting the need for nuanced management approaches. The findings emphasise the importance of considering technological and psychosocial factors in successful AI implementation in healthcare settings. Patient or Public Contribution No Patient or Public Contribution.