Community Nursing Interventions and Their Impact on Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review of International Evidence.

Abstract

This systematic review synthesized findings from 17 studies conducted between 2000 and 2024, focusing on the definitions, interventions, and outcomes associated with community nursing. The studies originated from diverse countries, including Singapore, Australia, Italy, Portugal, and the United States, and employed various designs such as quasi-experimental trials, pre-post evaluations, and descriptive studies. Sample sizes ranged from 23 to over 1,600 participants, with most targeting older adults or individuals with chronic conditions. Definitions of community nursing varied, reflecting differences in national healthcare systems. Still, common features included nurse-led services focused on prevention, self-management support, and care coordination in non-hospital settings. Interventions ranged from short-term health fairs to long-term, structured programs, often including health assessments, lifestyle coaching, medication adherence support, and caregiver education. Outcomes were grouped into four categories: healthcare service utilization, patient-reported outcomes, clinical indicators, and quality of life. Notably, one large-scale program in Singapore reported a 23% reduction in emergency department visits. Other studies documented increases in self-monitoring behavior, improved self-efficacy, and greater patient satisfaction. However, limitations included small sample sizes, non-randomized designs, and reliance on self-reported data. Despite these constraints, the review highlights the potential of community nursing to improve individual health outcomes and reduce healthcare system burdens.