Workplace experiences of neurodivergent nurses: a scoping review

Abstract Background Despite the recognised benefits of a diverse nursing workforce and severe global shortages, little is known about the workplace experiences of neurodivergent nurses. A recent scoping review synthesised neurodivergent nurses’ workplace experiences but did not disaggregate findings by neurocognitive profile. This scoping review aimed to map and synthesise the literature reporting the workplace experiences of neurodivergent nurses, including their strengths, challenges, learning preferences, and workplace supports and accommodations, and to delineate findings by neurocognitive profile (autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia). Methods Scoping review with reflexive thematic analysis, informed by a strengths-based, social-relational framework. CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE and APA PsycInfo were searched in February 2025 and updated in October 2025; the protocol was prospectively registered with the Open Science Framework. Records were screened against pre-set criteria, charted using a piloted proforma, and synthesised using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Searching yielded 1,790 records, of which twelve sources met the inclusion criteria and five themes were generated. Across profiles, nurses described meaningful strengths alongside cumulative sensory, cognitive and organisational load. Effective support was contingent on disclosure, and disclosure was perceived as professionally risky. Conclusions Neurodivergent nurses bring valuable strengths to nursing practice yet frequently work in environments poorly matched to their needs, producing intensive adaptive labour and elevated attrition risk. Addressing this involves a shift from individual coping toward strengths-based, setting-sensitive accommodations embedded in workplace design, management and education.