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To identify and describe the current literature on neurodivergence in nursing and to identify existing gaps in knowledge.
Scoping review guided by Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review guidelines and PRISMA-Scoping Review framework.
Comprehensive search with inclusion following Participants, Concept, and Context framework: nurses or nursing workforce; neurodiversity or neurodivergence defined as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia; workplace environment. Articles were screened and data extracted by independent reviewers. Dates of inclusion were 1999–2025. Data analysed through descriptive categorisation.
MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), and PsycINFO (Ovid) were searched in April 2025, followed by reference mining and citation cross-referencing. Inclusion criteria were set for empirical studies, reviews, or textual evidence (expert opinions or narratives).
Twenty-two sources met inclusion criteria. Most addressed dyslexia and neurodiversity. Sources described strengths of neurodivergent nurses (e.g., deep focus, relationality, novel perspectives), workable challenges (e.g., documentation and multitasking). Studies reported adaptations at multiple levels: individual, interpersonal, and intraprofessional, noting system influences of medical model framing and gender bias in diagnosis.
Literature on neurodivergent nurses in the workplace is scarce. Neurodivergence offers strengths and challenges, yet ableism and limited research restrict well-being and professional advancement.
Greater recognition of neurodivergence in nursing could enhance workforce retention, innovation, and inclusivity. Neurodivergent nurses' perspectives should inform research, workplace design, and professional development.
What problem did the study address?: Limited research on neurodivergence in nursing despite growing awareness of neurodivergence generally and overall challenges in nursing retention and well-being. What were the main findings?: Literature encompasses empirical studies and textual evidence presenting strengths and challenges for nurses. Adaptation centered on the individual. Where and on whom will the research have an impact?: Researchers to increase empirical studies on neurodivergent nurses, including participatory methods; Leaders interested in workplace inclusion, sustainable workplaces, and professional innovation; Neurodivergent nurses and policy-makers concerned with workforce rights and healthcare resilience.
No Patient or Public Contribution.
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