Delphi Technique on Nursing Competence Studies: A Scoping Review

Abstract

This scoping review was conducted under the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework. It included primary studies published until 30 April 2023, obtained through a systematic search across PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases. The review focused on primary studies that used the Delphi technique in nursing competence research, especially those related to defining core competency frameworks and developing instruments to assess professional competence. The goal was to analyze the different methodological approaches used by authors, synthesize them, and propose recommendations to enhance methodological rigor, reliability, and validity in the application of the Delphi technique. For this purpose, the following review question was established: “What is the available evidence on the use of the Delphi technique in the study of professional competence in nursing?”. The extracted textual elements underwent a content analysis, resulting in dimensions established through an inductive approach. Twenty studies were included, yielding insights into diverse methodological options for conducting Delphi studies, organised around a set of dimensions: (1) preparatory procedures; (2) procedures for accessing and selecting experts; (3) acquisition of expert input; (4) data analysis and consensus; and (5) ethical and legal procedures and guarantees. The study’s limitations include the inability to include certain studies due to a lack of response to requests for clarification from corresponding authors. Additionally, the primary studies’ methodological quality was not assessed, which is another relevant aspect. The study’s results offer valuable insights for researchers intending to utilise the Delphi technique within the context of the research referenced in the included studies. This information encompasses important methodological choices, highlighting their potential benefits and associated risks. The review was prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework (Registration No: osf.io/kp2vw).