Sustainability and Nursing: Intersecting Paths: A Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis Study
Abstract
ABSTRACT The intersection of sustainability and nursing has emerged as a critical area of inquiry, particularly as healthcare systems face challenges like climate change and global pandemics. This study aimed to assess the current state and intellectual landscape of sustainability and nursing research. The study employed a dual‐method approach, utilizing bibliometric analysis and thematic analysis. The analysis of 164,985 sustainability studies revealed that 213 focused on nursing. Research interest peaked in 2022, largely triggered by the COVID‐19 pandemic. The focus evolved from reactive topics like burnout to proactive areas such as sustainable development goals and nursing education. Keyword analysis underscored the centrality of “resilience” and “sustainability.” A significant challenge identified was the limited collaboration. The findings confirm that the field is rapidly evolving from crisis‐response toward a future‐oriented, systemic approach. The nursing profession is a key actor in building a sustainable healthcare system and planet.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Sustainability in Higher Education
Nursing education and management
Nursing Education
Practice
and Leadership
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Sustainable Development
- Volume
- 34
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- 7400–7410
- Publication date
- 30 January 2026
- Language
- EN