A comprehensive systematic review of evidence on the structure, process, characteristics and composition of a nursing team that fosters a healthy work environment.

Objectives  The overall aim of this comprehensive systematic review was to identify the best available evidence on the effect of team characteristics, processes, structure and composition within the context of collaborative practice among nursing teams that create a healthy work environment. Search strategy  The search strategy sought to find both published and unpublished studies and papers written in the English language. An initial limited search of Medline and CINAHL databases was undertaken to identify optimal search terms. A second extensive search using all identified keywords and index terms was then undertaken. Methodological quality  Two independent reviewers assessed the methodological quality of retrieved papers using the corresponding checklist from the System for the Unified Management, Assessment and Review of Information (SUMARI) package. Results  The papers included in the review included nine experimental or quasi-experimental studies, 11 descriptive studies and four qualitative studies. A variety of different team structures such as interdisciplinary teams, primary nursing, team nursing, multidisciplinary models of care delivery and the use of a Partner in Patient Care model were investigated. Team characteristics should include accountability, commitment, enthusiasm and motivation. Social support within a team from a supervisor or colleague increased satisfaction levels of staff. Conclusion  The results of the review lead to the development of a number of recommendations for practice that could assist with creating a health work environment.