Objective To systematically evaluate the cognition of the role of ICU transitional care from the perspective of nurses, and provide references for implementing high-quality ICU transitional care. Methods Computer searches were conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang Database, VIP Database, and China Biomedical Literature Database to identify qualitative studies on the role cognition of ICU transitional care. The search period extended from the establishment of databases to February 2023. The Meta-synthesis method was used to summarize, interpret, and synthesize the results of the included literature. Results A total of 13 articles were included, resulting in 50 findings. Similar findings were grouped into 10 new categories, which were synthesized into 4 integrated results: ensuring continuity of care; providing health education, knowledge technology, and emotional support; ensuring the safety of ICU transitional care; and promoting the quality of nursing services and rehabilitation outcomes. Conclusion From the perspective of nurses, ICU transitional care nurses play diverse roles with a strong sense of role identity. Nursing managers should expand the scope of roles for ICU transitional care personnel, optimize role connotations, and build a high-quality ICU transitional care team.