Core Components of Effective Home Visiting Programmes and Parenting Interventions Delivered by Nurses and Midwives—A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

To investigate international evidence on home visits and parenting interventions delivered by nurses and midwives and to identify core components, such as intervention content, programme characteristics, contextual factors and implementation elements shared by effective interventions.

Design

Scoping Review.

Data Sources

Nine academic databases and grey literature were searched between June and August 2024 for studies published between 2020 and 2024.

Methods

Screening and data extraction were independently conducted by two reviewers using covidence. The intervention characteristics were described using the TIDieR framework, and the content was analysed thematically.

Results

Of the 3217 screened studies, 23 met the inclusion criteria. The studies employed various designs, including RCTs, quasi-experimental, cohort, cross-sectional, register-based and single-case experimental studies. Interventions were typically guided by theories of human ecology, attachment and self-efficacy. Most used structured materials and were delivered via face-to-face home visits by trained nurses, starting during pregnancy and continuing for up to 2 years. Visits ranged from weekly to monthly, mainly to family homes. Interventions were often tailored to family needs and cultural contexts. Five core themes emerged: (1) parenting education, (2) maternal and infant health, (3) mental health and psychosocial support, (4) community connections and (5) cultural sensitivity.

Conclusion

Effective interventions should be early, structured and tailored. Integrating parenting education, health, mental well-being and cultural sensitivity improves outcomes and scalable family care practices.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Findings highlight the need for structured training and support for nurses and midwives. Integrating these interventions into routine services, with attention paid to equity and proportionate universalism, can enhance family outcomes.

Impact

This review addressed the lack of clarity regarding what makes nurse- or midwife-led interventions effective. It identified key components that support child and family well-being and offers guidance for designing scalable, evidence-based interventions in maternal and child health services.

Reporting Method

The EQUATOR guidelines for PRISMA were met.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contributions.