Public Health Nurses' Experiences of Child Maltreatment Preventive Work in Primary Healthcare: A Qualitative Metasynthesis

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore public health nurses' experiences of child maltreatment preventive work in primary healthcare.

Design

The metasynthesis approach was based on the guidelines by Sandelowski and Barroso for synthesising qualitative research.

Methods

The quality of the included studies was appraised using Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for Qualitative Research. The analysis followed Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis.

Data Sources

Searches were conducted in five electronic databases: Cinahl, Medline, PsychINFO, Web of Science and SocINDEX in May and July 2024, and updated in April and December 2025.

Results

Thirteen qualitative studies were included, and five themes were developed: Insufficient knowledge about when and how to act, building a therapeutic relationship with parents, keeping the child's best interest in focus, in need of better interdisciplinary support and ambivalence in addressing child maltreatment.

Conclusion

Public health nurses face challenges in child maltreatment preventive work, including insufficient knowledge and limited interdisciplinary support. Even so, public health nurses demonstrate a strong commitment to children's safety and well-being and to building relations with families.

Implications for the Profession

The findings suggest an increased focus on strengthening public health nurses' knowledge of child maltreatment and improved interdisciplinary collaboration.

Impact

The findings are of interest to healthcare professionals and health authorities to improve child maltreatment preventive work in primary healthcare.

Reporting Method

This review adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

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

Trial and Protocol Registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42025637855.