Original ArticleApplication of telenursing in nursing practice: an integrative literature review

Aims and backgroundTelenursing is the use of technological resources and communication systems to encourage the development of nursing. Its efficiency has been demonstrated to help countries overcome barriers to healthcare. This study investigates the current telenursing strategies utilized in nursing practice, as found in the literature.MethodIntegrative literature review of the application of telenursing, using the descriptors: telenursing, nursing care and communication means, in Portuguese, English and Spanish, between 2003 and 2013.ResultsTelenursing is found particularly in care through telephone use for health services and orientations. The country with the largest number of research publications was the United States with 14 (37.8%), followed by Canada and the United Kingdom.Final considerationsIt could be verified that telenursing is growing, in view of its presence in different countries, with strong evidence and benefits of its use. It proves to be an efficient tool to help countries overcome geographical barriers and provide health care information to the population.