Research on the Hotspots and Development of “Internet+ Nursing Services” in China: A Bibliometric Analysis Based on CiteSpace

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the current research status, hotspots, and trends of the emerging nursing model of “Internet+ nursing service” in China, and to provide theoretical references for further research and development. Methods: The literature related to “Internet+ nursing service” was retrieved from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, VIP database, and SinoMed. Subsequently, visual analysis was performed using the CiteSpace scientific knowledge mapping software. Results: A total of 1223 articles were included. The number of papers published in this field has been increasing yearly, and a core group of authors has been formed. Research institutions are mainly comprised of universities and hospitals and a high percentage of projects were funded provincially and municipally, while the least percentage of projects were funded nationally. The main research hotspots include the nurse standardized management for online appointments, the current application situation for the nursing model, and factors influencing its application amongst the elderly and also in women and children’s groups. Conclusion: Although the “Internet+ nursing service” in China is still in its early stages, considerable progress has been made in relevant research. Future research should focus on identifying and omitting factors that hinder the industry’s growth, thereby establishing an effective long-term model of care.