Advances in the Application of AI Robots in Critical Care: A Promising Way in the Future (Preprint)

Abstract

In recent epochs, the field of critical medicine has seen a plethora of advancements due to the advent of artificial intelligence. Foremost among these is the evolution of artificial intelligence robot, which has progressed from the conceptual phase to implementation in clinical trials and applications. The Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a highly information-based medical facilities, is one of the most auspicious platforms for robotic AI applications and poised to derive substantial benefits. However, the reports of AI robotic usage in ICUs remains scarce. This review undertakes an extensive literature exploration of the development and usage of AI robots in ICUs, classifying them into five broad categories based on functionality and deployment scenarios: therapeutic assistance robots, nursing assistance robots, rehabilitation assistance robots, telepresence robots, logistics and disinfection robots. Moreover, it encapsulates ethical conundrums associated with AI robot utilization in ICU scenarios such as safety apprehensions, patient privacy and confidentiality, delineation of responsibility and cost-benefit issues. We propose plausible strategies to circumvent these issues and offer suggestions for the broader application of AI robots in ICUs.