Evaluating Nursing Career Development Programs: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND: Evidence-based nursing career development programs can support workforce planning, retention, and recruitment by harmonizing career guidance, capability development, and progression. Despite their recognized value, utilization varies across countries, organizations, and specialties, with limited evaluation of their development, implementation, or effectiveness. This scoping review explores key themes to inform nursing career development for Aotearoa New Zealand and identifies areas for further research. AIM: To provide a comprehensive overview of what is known about the evaluation of nursing career development programs. METHOD: A scoping review was conducted using Levac's six-step model. Rayyan software supported extraction and synthesis. CINAHL, ProQuest Central, PubMed, Scopus, and Policy Commons were searched for peer-reviewed and gray literature published between 2005 and 2025. RESULTS: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria, reflecting the scarcity of research in this area. Three key themes emerged: (a) differing program structures, (b) varied outcome measures and implementation approaches, and (c) individual and organizational barriers and facilitators. Evidence suggests career development programs positively impact professional development and nurse retention, but challenges include administrative burden and difficulties in measuring effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: This review highlights a significant gap in evaluating nursing career development programs globally. Evidence supports these programs as valuable tools for workforce development, while knowledge gaps remain regarding patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework (doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/QK5MG).