The Role of Nurses in Vaccine Advocacy and Administration

Abstract

Background: Vaccinations are among the most effective public health interventions, preventing millions of deaths annually. However, vaccine hesitancy—characterized by delays in acceptance or outright refusal—poses significant challenges to achieving herd immunity. This issue has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for effective strategies to combat vaccine hesitancy, particularly among healthcare providers such as nurses and pharmacists.

Methods: This scoping review employed a systematic methodology to identify and analyze empirical studies and grey literature related to the barriers and facilitators that nurses and pharmacists encounter in addressing vaccine hesitancy. The search was conducted across multiple databases, including MEDLINE and CINAHL, following the JBI Scoping Review Methodology.

Results: The review identified nine key barriers faced by nurses and pharmacists, including misinformation about vaccines, lack of communication tools, insufficient time for discussions, and distrust in the healthcare system. Conversely, six facilitators were noted, such as the availability of educational materials and the establishment of trusting relationships with patients. The analysis highlights that effective communication and interprofessional collaboration are critical in mitigating vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusion: Nurses and pharmacists play a vital role in vaccine advocacy and administration, yet they face significant barriers that hinder their ability to address vaccine hesitancy effectively. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that enhance their communication skills and provide adequate resources. Future research should focus on developing and implementing strategies that empower healthcare providers to foster vaccine acceptance among patients.