Knowledge Domain and Emerging Trends in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing: A Scientometric Review Based on CiteSpace and VOSviewer Analysis.

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the international landscape and hot topics within the field of wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) nursing over recent years. Methods: Literature on WOC nursing published between 2012 and 2024 was retrieved from the Web of Science database. VOSviewer was employed as the primary tool, complemented by CiteSpace, to conduct a bibliometric analysis. This included examining collaborative networks at the author, institutional, and national levels, alongside keyword visualizations employing clustering, time zone diagram analysis, and emergence analyses. Results: An initial search identified 3474 publications. These were subsequently grouped into eight central clusters, encompassing the work of 6341 authors. Analysis revealed current research hotspots, including the field of pressure injury, ostomy management, wound management, incontinence, skin damage, therapy technology, nursing care, and telehealth. Conclusion: First, scientific research attention in the field of WOC nursing is not high. Second, the uneven development of WOC nursing is mainly reflected in the imbalance in the number of publications between journals and countries. Third, the research focus of WOC nursing is in the wound care sector, among which pressure injuries have always been a research hotspot.