Objective:

To determine the level of professionalism among nurses as reported by the literature.

Method:

A literature review was conducted on different international databases following the Cochrane Manual and the PRISMA inform, and considering only the last 10 years. The methodology quality of the articles was assessed through the Effective Public Health Practice Project instrument (EPHPP).

Results:

Eleven studies making reference to the level of nursing professionalism were selected. The levels of professionalism differed among the countries, but a concordance was observed regarding professional autonomy. The publishing and communication areas reflected the lowest levels of professionalism.

Conclusion:

The level of professionalism in nursing varies among countries; and knowing the areas with highest and lowest levels is important to develop strategies to address the issue. The nursing professionals should foster their professionalism, their autonomy, their publishing activities, and their participation in professional organizations.