Exploring the Dimensions of Favorable Nursing Practice Environments in Long-Term Care
摘要
Background: Favorable Nursing Practice Environments (NPEs) are essential for care quality and professional retention. However, the specific characteristics of NPEs in Long-Term Care (NPE-LTC) are poorly understood, lacking a robust evidence base and specific assessment tools. This review aimed to map and characterized the existing scientific evidence regarding the NPE-LTC. Methods: A Scoping Review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. Using the PCC framework (Participants: nurses; Concept: NPE; Context: LTC), we searched databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE) without a time limit to answer the research question: “How is the NPE-LTC characterized?”. Results: Eleven studies (2010–2022) were included. The synthesis revealed that favorable NPE-LTCs are characterized by: strong leadership and management support, adequate resources (human and material), professional development opportunities, and nurse autonomy. Conversely, unfavorable environments showed a strong association with turnover intention, professional dissatisfaction, and poor team relationships. Conclusions: The main finding is the lack of instruments validated specifically to measure the NPE in the LTC context; existing studies adapt acute-care tools (e.g., PES-NWI). This review provides a clear characterization of the NPE-LTC, offering essential evidence for management to develop policies that improve practice environments, nurse retention, and the sustainability of health services.