Advanced practice nursing students’ perceptions of their future work in digitalized healthcare: A descriptive qualitative study

Few studies have examined advanced practice nursing (APN) master students’ insights on the future of work from a digitalization standpoint. The present study aimed to provide insight into the perceptions of APN master students regarding digital healthcare in 2040 using the remembering the future method. A descriptive, qualitative study was conducted. Data were collected using the remembering the future method in 2024. Purposive sampling was employed with a total of 38 APN students as respondents. All respondents were registered nurses. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (i.e., COREQ) checklist was followed. Three themes emerged: 1) Advanced technology enabling customized care, 2) Robots working with nurses and 3) Establishing a respectful and harmonious work environment. APN students see their future work in healthcare positively with respect to technology as part of everyday routine, robots as coworkers and clinical environment characterized by pleasant harmony. These findings can be utilized in designing and implementing nursing curricula, as well as in the continuing education of nurses.