Exploring the role of nursing in implementation of collaborative integrated models of care in the community: a scoping review

Prebble, Gemma ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-5371-3918 and Evans, David ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3501-2437 (2025) Exploring the role of nursing in implementation of collaborative integrated models of care in the community: a scoping review. Journal of Integrated Care. ISSN 1476-9018

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Abstract

Purpose Although the nursing role appears central in delivering collaborative models of care little is known about the experience of nurses within implementation of integrated nursing care. Design/methodology/approach A scoping review to identify what is known about the experience of nurses implementing integrated care in the community, incorporating thematic analysis utilising the Rainbow Model. Findings Although noting a paucity of evidence, findings indicate implementation of integrated care models provides both challenges and opportunities to nurses across all systems levels. Thematic analysis highlights a disproportionate lack of focus on organisational integration of nursing services within integrated care. Exploration of tacit attributes and network development is suggested to support nursing delivery of services which challenge traditional organisational and professional boundaries. Research limitations/implications Limited research exploring experiences of nurses in implementing integrated care suggests more rigorous mixed methods or qualitative research is indicated, including case studies exploring organisational integration, nursing leadership strategies and how tacit attributes support collaborative working. Originality/value Using a systems approach, applying the Rainbow Model within scoping review analysis, enabled exploration of what is known about nursing within the contemporary context of integrated healthcare services.