To analyze the distribution of nursing education policy tools, and provide references for optimizing China′s nursing education policy system. Methods Based on the perspective of policy tools, nursing education policy texts published in China from 1978 to 2024 were selected. NVivo was used to construct a two-dimensional analytical framework model based on the Rothwell & Zegveld framework for coding, sorting, and quantitative analysis. Results A total of 28 policy documents on nursing education were finally included and 323 policy analysis items were extracted. In the dimension of policy tools, supply-oriented, demand-oriented, and environment-oriented policy tools accounted for 42.42%, 28.48%, and 29.10% respectively. In the dimension of development periods, policy tools in the recovery reshaping period, stable development period, and rapid improvement period accounted for 53.56%, 26.32%, and 20.12% respectively. Conclusion Discrepancies exist in the utilization of policy tools for nursing education in China. Supply-side policy tools dominate, with a significant emphasis on teaching reform. Demand-side policy tools primarily focus on talent cultivation, while international engagement receives limited attention. Environmental policy tools are predominantly implemented through regulatory measures, with policy advocacy remaining underutilized. It is suggested that the application of demand-oriented policy tools should be moderately increased, the structure of environmental policy tools should be optimized, and the resource allocation of supply-oriented policy tools should be improved. These measures are aimed at achieving efficient and rational use and distribution of policy tools, thereby promoting the high-quality development of nursing education in China.