A Narrative Review of Studies on Nursing Practice Competencies of Japanese Home Health Nurses

Introduction: The aims of this study were to clarify the characteristics and examine measures for improving the nursing practice competencies of home health nurses. Methods : A narrative review was conducted to analyze the definitions of key elements that constitute the competencies in nursing practice of home health nurses in Japan. Results: The competencies of home healthcare nurses were based on professional attitudes, knowledge, and skills. The characteristics of these competencies were demonstrated in daily life in the practice of home health care. The following common elements were extracted from more than half of the seven articles reviewed: “support for users and their families with independence and individuality,” “utilization of the health care system, social resources, and inter-professional collaboration,” “basic professional attitude and demeanor as a home health nurse,” and “risk management for disaster and infection.” Conclusion: The development of these four elements of nursing practice in the training of home healthcare nurses should be prioritized. To improve the competencies of home healthcare nurses, on-the-job training that focuses on the individuality of users and opportunities for team management should be provided. In the training of newcomers, competencies should be achieved based on their attitude as professionals and risk management skills.