The impact of Continuing Nursing Education on nurses’ knowledge and quality of practice: A systematic review

Authors

Areti Stavropoulou, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece;
Martha Kelesi, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
Marianthi Baltagianni, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
Evangelia Sigala, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
Eleni Tsapnidou, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, GreeceFollow
Georgia Gerogianni, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
Georgios Katharakis, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece

Abstract

Purpose. To explore the impact of continuing education on nursing knowledge and quality of practice.

Method. In compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic review was conducted in January 2024 using the PubMed, Trip, Science Direct and Scopus databases. The inclusion criteria comprised original research studies, published between 2018 and 2024.

Results. The results of 14 research studies that met the inclusion criteria, yield that continuing nursing education significantly contributes to the enhancement of nurses’ knowledge and skills. Through continuing education, nurses may develop high levels of self-confidence and proficiency in decision-making. New technology and contemporary educational tools may offer various advantages and reinforce nurses’ motivation to participate in continuing education programs.

Conclusion. Lifelong learning in nursing is even more important in times of transformation and technological evolution. Further research is recommended focusing on the correlation between continuing education, patient outcomes and quality of the care rendered.

Recommended Citation

Stavropoulou, Areti; Kelesi, Martha; Baltagianni, Marianthi; Sigala, Evangelia; Tsapnidou, Eleni; Gerogianni, Georgia; and Katharakis, Georgios (2025) "The impact of Continuing Nursing Education on nurses’ knowledge and quality of practice: A systematic review," Health Professions Education: Vol. 11: Iss. 3, Article 5.
DOI: 10.55890/2452-3011.1346
Available at: https://hpe.researchcommons.org/journal/vol11/iss3/5