Nipah virus and implications for the nursing workforce and public health: A rapid review

The Nipah virus has raised significant concerns in global health security. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the nursing workforce continues to face numerous challenges, including inadequate preparedness for pandemics, a shortage of nursing personnel, physical, and mental exhaustion.

This rapid review aimed to synthesize existing literature on the Nipah virus and its implications for the nursing workforce.

A rapid review was conducted to synthesize the available literature on the Nipah virus, facilitating the provision of timely and pertinent information to policymakers and decision influencers. A systematic search strategy was implemented between January 22 and February 9, 2024, from PubMed, CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus, and Google Scholar without year limitation. Out of 149 studies, six studies were evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklists, and one study was excluded based on this evaluation, resulting in five studies being included. Then these were reviewed using narrative synthesis. The study adhered to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

The selected research indicated that the virus was transmitted throughout the community and during hospital admissions, resulting in unexpected mortality. The healthcare staff, especially nurses, had a limited understanding of the infection. Although there is a lack of confidence in policy and decision-makers, many public health initiatives have been implemented such as providing education on infection prevention and control methods to healthcare personnel, including nurses and support staff.

There is a need to integrate continuing professional development programs in both primary health care and specialized medical care to strengthen the preparedness of healthcare personnel for future pandemics. Support systems not only for healthcare staff members, especially nurses, but also for allied personnel working with them to create conducive working environments.