Nursing‐Led Knowledge Translation Strategies to Improve Patient Safety in Hospital Settings: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

To conduct a scoping review of nurse-led Knowledge Translation strategies aimed at promoting and enhancing patient safety in hospital settings.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and was reported according to PRISMA-ScR.

Data Sources

Twelve electronic databases and additional grey literature sources were searched for studies published between 2002 and 2023, with no language restrictions.

Results

From 23,691 records identified, 59 studies were included. The majority (n = 56) employed multifaceted Knowledge Translation strategies, incorporating simulation, audits, digital tools and interprofessional education. The interventions focused on patient safety-related events, including falls, pressure injuries and catheter-associated complications. Nursing leadership emerged as a key component, particularly in team training, developing care protocols and delivering feedback. Outcomes included reductions in adverse events, improved adherence to clinical guidelines and cost savings. Yet, sustaining behaviour changes over time and limited interprofessional and family engagement remained recurrent challenges.

Conclusions

Nurse-led Knowledge Translation strategies were heterogeneous, with increasing use of simulations, technologies and multifaceted approaches. Evidence suggests potential associations with fewer adverse events, improved care quality, individualized planning and cost efficiency. Challenges related to the sustainability of interventions persist. Findings underscore the importance of investing in nursing leadership and capacity-building to strengthen patient safety.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Strengthening nurse-led KT capacities may enhance evidence-based care and improve safety outcomes. Investment in leadership and tailored implementation is critical.

Impact

What problem did the study address? The limited synthesis of how nurses lead KT strategies to improve patient safety in hospitals. What were the main findings? Most strategies were multifaceted, context-sensitive and associated with improved care processes and safety indicators. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Findings are relevant to hospital nurses, nurse educators, managers and health systems seeking to implement evidence-informed safety interventions.

Reporting Method

This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR reporting guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct or reporting.

Trial Registration

Open Science Framework (OSF); registration identifier: 10.17605/OSF.IO/K3VJC