Background Empty nesters are older people who live alone or an older couple without children to care for them. In China, empty nesters make up a significant community and are more likely to experience emotional issues, particularly depression. This study investigated the prevalence of depression and the factors influencing depression among Chinese home-bound empty nesters using meta-analysis. Methods Based on previous studies, we used search terms relating to empty nesters and depression in English and Chinese. Databases, including China Journal Full Text Database (CNKI), Wanfang, Wipu, China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and UptoDate, were searched in April 2022, for relevant articles. Details including names of authors, year of publication, region of investigation, study type, sample size, depression detection scale, depression detection rate, and influencing factors were captured. The heterogeneity of the studies was assessed based on the I2 index, and data analysis was performed using Stata 16.0 software. Results A total of ten research articles involving 5337 Chinese empty nesters were evaluated in the present meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of depression among empty nesters in China was 43%. The prevalence of depression among urban empty nesters was 38% (95% CI: 0.24,0.52), and 36% (95% CI: 0.18,0.55) among rural empty nesters. Many factors, including female, income, marital status, chronic illness, relationship with children, and social support were linked to depression among urban empty nesters. Conclusion The prevalence of depression among empty nesters was 43%. Therefore, based on the factors influencing depression, government departments can intervene early to improve the mental health of empty nesters. Limitations The meta-analysis only included cross-sectional studies. Therefore, there is a need for more future original studies investigating depression among empty nesters in China.

Objective: To analyze the research hotspots and trends of nursing scenario simulation teaching at home and abroad, and to provide reference for future nursing talent education. Methods: CNKI and Web of Science databases were searched. From the establishment of the database to April 2022, relevant literature on nursing scenario simulation teaching research at home and abroad was retrieved, and Cite Space software was used for visual analysis. Results: The research focus on China was the application and application effect of nursing scenario simulation teaching. The research hotspots abroad are the quality evaluation, reliability and influence of nursing scenario simulation teaching. Conclusion: The research and development of nursing scenario simulation teaching gradually tend to be systematic.