Measurement Instruments Based on the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC): A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Health Sciences
• Measurement in Health

Background:

• The Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) provides standardized outcomes for nursing care.
• Developing valid and reliable measurement instruments from NOC outcomes is essential for evidence-based practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map and describe measurement instruments derived from Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) outcomes.
• To evaluate the psychometric properties of these NOC-based measurement instruments.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology.
• Extensive literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, etc.) updated to September 2025.
• Data extraction and synthesis by two independent reviewers.

Main Results:

• 100 studies published between 2007-2025 were included, identifying 89 measurement instruments.
• These instruments utilized 140 different NOC outcomes, with 89.89% reporting psychometric evaluations.
• Content validity, response processes, internal structure, and relationships with other variables were assessed.

Conclusions:

• NOC nursing outcomes indicators are fundamental for developing measurement instruments applicable across diverse populations and contexts.
• The identified instruments offer evidence of validity and reliability, aiding nurses in selecting appropriate assessment tools.
• This work supports the selection of robust tools for measuring nursing phenomena in clinical practice.