Introduction <p>The increasing frequency and complexity of global disasters demand a highly competent and resilient nursing workforce. While nurses are essential across all phases of disaster management, the specialty of disaster nursing faces systemic challenges that undermine its effectiveness. This scoping review synthesizes academic literature to identify and address critical gaps within the field.</p> Method <p>A structured scoping review methodology was employed, analyzing peer-reviewed articles to identify recurring themes and deficiencies.</p> Results and findings <p>The findings highlight significant shortcomings in five key areas: (1) inadequate and inconsistent education and training; (2) ambiguous roles, responsibilities, and scopes of practice; (3) the profound and often unaddressed psychological toll on nurses; (4) nascent evidence base due to a lack of robust research; and (5) systemic logistical and organizational barriers. These gaps compromise patient outcomes, responder safety, and the overall resilience of the healthcare system in crises.</p> Conclusion <p>Based on this analysis, a series of evidence-informed recommendations are proposed to advance the specialty. These include developing a standardized educational framework, formalizing disaster nursing roles through policy and credentialing, integrating comprehensive mental health support systems, promoting a targeted research agenda, and strengthening interprofessional collaboration with nurses in leadership roles. Addressing these critical areas is paramount to building a sustainable and effective disaster nursing workforce capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century.</p> Clinical trial number <p>Not applicable</p>