The Evolution Of Nursing Practice In Modern Healthcare: Expanding Clinical Scope, Professional Autonomy, And Interdisciplinary Integration

Abstract

The nursing profession has undergone profound transformation over recent decades, evolving from a predominantly task-oriented and supportive role into a highly autonomous, knowledge-driven, and integral component of modern healthcare systems. This review aims to synthesize contemporary evidence on the evolution of nursing practice, with particular emphasis on the expansion of clinical scope, the growth of professional autonomy, and the increasing integration of nurses within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Using a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature published between 2015 and 2025, this article examines key drivers of nursing evolution, including healthcare system complexity, demographic and epidemiological transitions, technological innovation, and policy and educational reforms. The findings highlight significant advancements in advanced nursing practice, nurse-led models of care, independent clinical decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration across diverse healthcare settings. Evidence consistently demonstrates that the evolving role of nurses contributes to improved patient outcomes, enhanced care continuity, increased system efficiency, and strengthened workforce resilience. Despite these advances, challenges remain related to regulatory variability, role clarity, and organizational readiness. This review underscores the strategic importance of supporting nursing evolution to achieve sustainable, high-quality, and patient-centered healthcare systems.