Healthcare professionals' experiences of using an Artificial Intelligence training tool to practice asking questions about child abuse

Background Children with chronic diseases face an increased risk of child abuse. The aim was to explore healthcare professionals' experiences with an artificial intelligence (AI)-based training tool for practicing questions to identify potential child abuse as well as their overall experiences of asking such questions. Methods An exploratory qualitative study was conducted at a pediatric hospital in Sweden. Fifteen healthcare professionals participated. Following a brief educational session on child abuse and its consequences, participants used an AI-based training tool to practice asking questions about potential child abuse in simulated conversations. Semi-structured interviews analyzed using Systematic Text Condensation, a thematic cross-case analysis method. Results Four categories emerged from the analysis, ‘Perceptions of interaction and support in the training tool’, ‘An opportunity to practice asking questions about child abuse’, ‘Organizational support for learning and development’, ‘Difficulties and uncertainty in asking questions about child abuse’. The training tool was perceived as credible and engaging, and useful for practicing difficult conversations. The analysis revealed a need for practice in asking difficult questions and a need for managerial guidance to allocate time. Regular follow-up visits increase opportunities to build trust and are perceived to make it easier to ask sensitive questions. Conclusion Healthcare professionals described uncertainty regarding how to ask about child abuse. Practicing with an AI-based training tool in simulated conversations appeared to increase their confidence and preparedness for addressing potential child abuse in clinical encounters.