Measurement Instruments Based on the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC): A Scoping Review

Purpose To map and describe the measurement instruments that have been developed from the outcomes of the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC). Data sources A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. The search for published and unpublished literature was carried out in April 2023 and updated in September 2025, using the following information sources: PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, ProQuest One Academic, Scopus, Virtual Health Library, Science Direct, LA , and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers performed data selection and extraction. Data synthesis One hundred studies published between 2007 and 2025 were included. Eighty-nine measurement instruments were identified, which used 140 different NOC outcomes. Of the 89 identified instruments, 80 (89.89%) evaluated their psychometric properties. Content validity was evidenced in 57 (64.04%) instruments, response processes in 22 (24.72%), internal structure in 30 (33.71%), and relationships with other variables in 29 (32.58%) instruments. Reliability tests focused on the use of measurement indices, agreement between different evaluators, sensitivity to change, and test-retest. Conclusions The findings of this review show that the NOC nursing outcomes indicators have been fundamental in developing measurement instruments that allow for the measurement of various phenomena relevant to nursing practice in different populations and contexts. Implications for nursing practice This study not only describes measurement instruments based on NOC outcome indicators but also provides evidence of the validity and reliability of these instruments, helping nursing professionals select appropriate tools to assess care and nursing-related phenomena in individuals, families, or communities.