Top Nursing Journals by Impact Factor in 2024

In the evolving field of nursing, staying updated with the latest research and advancements is essential for healthcare professionals. One of the best ways to remain informed is by reading reputable nursing journals. These publications offer peer-reviewed articles that provide insights into clinical practices, patient care, nursing education, and more. Here, we explore some of the top nursing journals by impact factor in 2024, a key metric indicating the frequency with which a journal’s articles are cited in other works.

What is Impact Factor?

The impact factor (IF) is a measure reflecting the yearly average number of citations to articles published in a journal during the last two years. It is used as a proxy for the relative importance of a journal within its field. Higher impact factors indicate more influential journals. Here are some of the top nursing journals based on their impact factor in 2024.

1. Journal of Nursing Scholarship

Impact Factor: 4.5

The Journal of Nursing Scholarship is a leading publication in the field, known for its rigorous peer-reviewed articles. It covers a wide range of topics including clinical practice, nursing education, health policy, and global health issues. The journal is highly regarded for its quality research and its commitment to advancing the science of nursing.

2. International Journal of Nursing Studies

Impact Factor: 4.2

The International Journal of Nursing Studies (IJNS) is one of the oldest and most respected nursing journals. It focuses on original research and scholarship relevant to nursing and midwifery worldwide. The IJNS publishes articles on topics such as nursing management, healthcare policy, and patient care strategies, making it a valuable resource for nurse researchers and practitioners.

3. Journal of Advanced Nursing

Impact Factor: 4.1

The Journal of Advanced Nursing (JAN) is dedicated to publishing high-quality research and scholarship that advances the field of nursing. It covers diverse areas including clinical practice, nursing education, leadership, and healthcare delivery. JAN is known for its robust methodological standards and its emphasis on evidence-based practice.

4. Nursing Outlook

Impact Factor: 3.9

Nursing Outlook is the official journal of the American Academy of Nursing. It focuses on policy, practice, and education issues in nursing and healthcare. The journal publishes research articles, systematic reviews, and theoretical papers that address critical issues in nursing and healthcare. Its high impact factor reflects its importance in shaping nursing practice and policy.

5. Journal of Clinical Nursing

Impact Factor: 3.7

The Journal of Clinical Nursing (JCN) aims to promote excellence in clinical nursing by providing a forum for disseminating high-quality research and evidence-based practice. The journal covers a wide range of topics including clinical interventions, patient outcomes, and nursing education. JCN is widely read by clinicians, researchers, and educators in the nursing field.

6. Nursing Research

Impact Factor: 3.5

Nursing Research is a premier publication for health-related research. It publishes rigorous studies that address significant clinical and theoretical issues in nursing. The journal’s high impact factor is a testament to its role in advancing the science of nursing through robust research and scholarly discourse.

7. Research in Nursing & Health

Impact Factor: 3.3

Research in Nursing & Health is a well-regarded journal that publishes research aimed at improving nursing practice and healthcare outcomes. The journal covers a broad range of topics including health promotion, disease prevention, and health services research. Its impact factor highlights its significance in the field of nursing research.

8. Journal of Nursing Research

Impact Factor: 3.1

The Journal of Nursing Research publishes original research articles that contribute to the knowledge base of nursing practice. It covers topics such as nursing education, clinical practice, and healthcare policy. The journal’s impact factor reflects its influence on the practice and science of nursing.

Staying informed with the latest research and developments in nursing is crucial for healthcare professionals. These top nursing journals, distinguished by their high impact factors, provide invaluable resources for nurses, educators, and researchers. By regularly engaging with these publications, nursing professionals can enhance their knowledge, improve patient care, and contribute to the advancement of the field.

For nursing practitioners and researchers aiming to stay at the forefront of their profession, these journals offer a wealth of information and insights that are essential for professional growth and development.