A Systematic Review of Nursing Competencies: Addressing the Challenges of Evolving Healthcare Systems and Demographic Changes

Background/Objectives: The role of nurses is poised to undergo significant transformations in the forthcoming years due to rapidly evolving sociocultural, environmental, and technological phenomena. Defining and assessing nursing competencies are crucial for ensuring quality nursing care and fostering professional growth. This literature review aimed to explore future nursing competencies and the sociocultural phenomena shaping them. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science databases using keywords such as “nursing competencies,” “future,” “healthcare systems,” and “demographic change.” Studies published within the last 5 years were included and underwent rigorous quality assessment. Results: The findings indicate that phenomena such as environmental sustainability, technology, innovation, globalization, urbanization, uncertain policies, and demographic evolution will significantly impact nursing competency development. Projections suggest that nearly 70% of the nursing workforce will operate in areas marked by high uncertainty and unpredictability. The review underscores the importance of cultivating interpersonal, higher-order cognitive, and system-level competencies, along with complementary competences in personal and customer services, decision-making, technology, creativity, and scientific methods. Conclusions: Addressing future challenges in nursing requires a holistic and strategic approach. This entails a cultural shift within the profession, supported by targeted policies and investments in training and continuous professional development. Education and training systems must prioritize the development of “structural” competencies and lifelong learning capacities.