Advanced Competencies for Endoscopy Nurses: A Rapid Review of Current Practices and Training Approaches.

Abstract

As endoscopy procedures expand in scope and technology, endoscopy nurses find themselves requiring advanced competencies that span both technical skills and clinical knowledge. This review aims to identify the key advanced competencies for nurses in endoscopy, addressing competencies that optimize patient outcomes and the efficacy of endoscopic procedures. This review was conducted in accordance with Cochrane Rapid Review guidance between June and September 2025 using MeSH terms including "endoscopy," "gastrointestinal endoscopy," "nurse," "nursing," "competence," "competency," "advanced practice," and "training." PubMed, CINAHL and Scopus were searched for peer-reviewed articles and gray literature, with no language or time limitations. Sixteen articles were included. The core competency domains identified are: clinical assessment and patient management, procedural and interventional support competence, equipment management and infection control, sedation and patient monitoring, documentation and quality assurance. This rapid review provides an updated synthesis of advanced competencies in gastrointestinal endoscopy nursing. While core domains are recognized internationally, variation in training structures and role delineation persists. Findings contribute to the development of harmonized frameworks and inform future curriculum design and workforce planning.