A systematic review of nursing interventions for schizophrenia in graduate theses

Abstract

This study aimed to systematically review nursing-led interventions for individuals with schizophrenia presented in graduate theses in Türkiye, identifying evidence-based and culturally relevant practices that support recovery. Background Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder requiring holistic, multidisciplinary care. Nurses play a central role in delivering psychosocial interventions. Graduate theses represent a valuable, underutilized source of context-specific nursing evidence. Although nursing interventions have demonstrated benefits in schizophrenia care, limited synthesis exists regarding academic theses. This review explores interventions reported in postgraduate nursing theses from Türkiye to better inform practice. Methods A systematic review was conducted using Türkiye's National Thesis Center database. Theses were included if they were from nursing departments, focused on schizophrenia interventions, and available in full text. Of 1751 records screened, 41 met inclusion criteria. Data were extracted on design, intervention type, outcomes, and efficacy. Results Most theses used randomized controlled (58.5%) or quasi-experimental (41.5%) designs. Common interventions included psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, creative therapies, and telepsychiatry. Evaluated outcomes included treatment adherence, symptom severity, quality of life, and emotional well-being. While most interventions yielded positive results, some (e.g., adherence therapy, resilience training) showed limited effects. Variability in intervention duration and outcome measures limited comparability. Conclusion The findings reflect a shift toward recovery-oriented, person-centered care in nursing practice. However, standardization and larger-scale studies are needed to enhance reliability and applicability. Implications for nursing and/or health policy Nursing-led interventions offer valuable contributions to schizophrenia care. Incorporating findings from postgraduate research into practice guidelines and policy may strengthen the role of psychiatric nurses and promote equitable, evidence-based mental health services.