Assessing Perceptions and Experiences of an AI-Driven Speech Assistant for Nursing Documentation: A Qualitative Study in German Nursing Homes

In addressing the critical need for efficient nursing documentation amidst rising workloads and skilled worker shortage, this study investigates the adoption of AI-based speech assistants within German nursing homes. The necessity for innovative support solutions like digitization through speech technology is underscored by current, time-consuming documentation processes prone to errors. Highlighting the urgency for innovative digital solutions, our qualitative research delves into caregivers' perceptions, usage experiences, and factors influencing acceptance of an AI-based speech assistant. Findings indicate substantial work facilitation and improvements in daily tasks, including immediate information access, elimination of unnecessary movement, reduced process interruptions, and timely, mobile documentation, which collectively lead to significant time savings and notable reduction in caregiver workload. Furthermore, the integration of speech assistants fosters transparency and interactivity in resident care. Despite these benefits, key barriers such as technical challenges, the need for accuracy with dialects and accents, and data privacy concerns highlight the complexity of widespread adoption. Addressing these issues through enhanced technical support, training, and infrastructure improvements is crucial for leveraging the full potential of speech recognition technology in nursing documentation. This study contributes to the discourse on digital healthcare solutions, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to overcome technical and acceptance barriers. Further investigation into the broader impacts on care recipients and documentation quality is necessary to fully understand and optimize the use of AI-based speech assistants in nursing practice.