Nurses’ role in care delivery for displaced populations: a scoping review

Abstract Objectives To synthesize evidence on the role of nurses-including midwives, registered nurses, and advanced practice nurses-in caring for forcibly displaced individuals and communities. This review explores nursing practices, interventions, as well as the challenges and facilitators of healthcare delivery in displaced populations. Inclusion criteria: The review included quantitative studies published between January 2015 and January 2025 examining nursing care for refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers. Studies were eligible if they reported on any aspect of nursing care, including needs assessment, intervention implementation, care coordination, or barriers such as language, culture, and trauma. Studies on community health workers (CHWs), nursing students or other healthcare professionals were excluded. Only English-language studies were considered. Methods This scoping review followed JBI methodology and is reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR. We searched PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science and Global Index Medicus and screened relevant grey literature. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data using Covidence; consensus was then reached by a third reviewer. Data were analyzed thematically using an inductive approach, and findings are presented narratively and in tabular form. Results Of 2,690 records screened, 26 quantitative studies published between 2016 and 2025 were included. Studies spanned multiple regions and care settings. Nurses were primary care providers, delivering services in infectious disease, chronic illness, maternal and child health, mental health, and health education. Barriers included limited resources, language and cultural differences, safety concerns, and provider strain. Facilitators included cultural training, task sharing, and values-based care. Most studies were descriptive, few assessed intervention effectiveness or long-term outcomes. Geographic and data gaps limited generalizability. Key messages • Nurses are central to refugee health - providing primary care, maternal support, mental health, and advocacy - filling gaps in care with a holistic, adaptable, and person-centered approach. • Stronger outcomes-based research on nurse-led care is needed - especially on long-term impact, training, telehealth, and mental health tools - to strengthen care for displaced populations.