Mapping Nursing Roles in Long-Term Care: A Systematic Review With Network Analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Gerontology

Background:

• Long-term care settings present complex challenges for nursing practice.
• Understanding nurses' multifaceted roles is crucial for effective care delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize evidence on the diverse roles of nurses in long-term care.
• To map the interactions and interconnectedness of these roles using network analysis.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles published between 2014 and 2024.
• Thematic synthesis identified nurses' roles, while network analysis visualized their interactions.
• Six major databases were searched, and study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Main Results:

• Fifteen studies revealed nurses' roles across six domains: collaboration, education, leadership, resident-centered care, quality improvement, and resource management.
• Collaboration and leadership emerged as central roles, bridging other domains.
• Three clusters of roles were identified: operational teamwork, systemic care enhancements, and training/resident-focused care.
• A technological competence gap, staffing shortages, and role ambiguity were noted as significant barriers.

Conclusions:

• Nurses' interconnected roles are vital for resident-centered care in long-term settings.
• Systemic support is essential to overcome identified barriers and technological gaps.
• Interprofessional training, leadership development, and digital skill integration can enhance care quality and nurse well-being.