The Role of Nursing in the Control of Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases: A Comprehensive Evidence-Based Narrative Review with Clinical and Policy Implications

Background: Communicable diseases (CDs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remain the leading causes of global mortality and health system burden. Nurses, representing the largest segment of the healthcare workforce, play a pivotal role in prevention, surveillance, chronic disease management, rehabilitation, and policy advocacy. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar (۲۰۰۰–۲۰۲۴). Peer-reviewed studies focusing on nurse-led infection control, vaccination, chronic disease management, advanced practice nursing, and health system strengthening were synthesized. Results: Evidence demonstrates that nurse-led infection prevention significantly reduces healthcare-associated infections. Advanced practice nurses improve chronic disease outcomes including glycemic control and cardiovascular risk reduction. Community-based nursing interventions increase vaccination coverage and reduce avoidable hospitalizations. Task-shifting models enhance equitable access to HIV and tuberculosis treatment. Conclusion: Nursing is central to integrated disease control strategies. Strategic investment in education, leadership, and workforce development is essential to achieve Universal Health Coverage and sustainable global health systems.

کلیدواژه ها:

Nursing ، Communicable Diseases ، Non-Communicable Diseases ، Chronic Disease Management ، Infection Prevention ، Public Health ، Advanced Practice Nursing ، Health Policy