Artificial Intelligence in Emergency Medicine: A Primer for the Nonexpert

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being utilized to augment the practice of emergency medicine due to rapid technological advances and breakthroughs. AI applications have been used to enhance triage systems, predict disease-specific risk, estimate staffing needs, forecast patient decompensation, and interpret imaging findings in the emergency department setting. This article aims to help readers without formal training become informed end-users of AI in emergency medicine. The authors will briefly discuss the principles and key terminology of AI, the reasons for its rising popularity, its potential applications in the emergency department setting, and its limitations. Additionally, resources for further self-studying will also be provided.