Master’s dissertations in rehabilitation nursing at the Coimbra Nursing School (2010–2024): A bibliometric study

Introduction: The Master’s Programs in Rehabilitation Nursing (MPRN) at the Coimbra Nursing School (ESEnfC) have been running since 2009/2010. However, the extent to which the knowledge produced throughout these programs has been systematized and critically analyzed remains unclear, limiting its potential to guide future research priorities and methodological approaches in the field. Objectives: To identify and characterize the master’s theses in Rehabilitation Nursing completed between 2010 and 2024. Methods: A bibliometric study was developed based on documentary analysis and descriptive statistics of 101 theses completed across twelve MPRN editions, available online and in the institution libraries. Results: Most theses focused on “Management” (26.8%). The most frequent emerging research area was “Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Nursing Interventions” (36%), and the most frequent priority area was “Healthy Lifestyles” (23.5%). The most common keyword was “Rehabilitation Nursing” (28.05%). The most frequently used theoretical model was Orem’s Self-Care Theory (44.7%). Quantitative methodological approaches (62.4%) and descriptive studies (45.5%) predominated. Among productivity indicators, the theses themselves (63.5%) and oral presentations at scientific events (38%) were the most frequent. Conclusion: The analysis exposes an underused potential of the theses to inform practice and policy. Enhancing dissemination and translating findings into clinical contexts are essential to strengthen the impact of Rehabilitation Nursing research.