Italian Contributions to Nursing Theory

Nursing theories are essential for advancing disciplinary knowledge globally. However, the scope and maturity of nursing theoretical contributions in Italy remain unclear. The aim of this scoping review was to analyze the current state of theoretical nursing production in Italy by domain area and degree of maturity. Thirty sources of evidence were included, identifying 28 theoretical contributions: 6 concept definitions, 5 early-stage, 10 developing-stage, and 7 advanced-stage theoretical contributions. Most contributions were useful for clinical practice (n = 18), organization (n = 8), and education (n = 8). Italian nursing theory is expanding but remains largely developmental, highlighting the need for further empirical validation and international dissemination.