Objective: To explore the research progress of clinical nursing curriculum design based on competency-based education (CBE), and provide a reference for nursing education reform in China. Methods: By systematically sorting out relevant domestic and foreign literature, this paper analyzes the theoretical foundation and core elements of the CBE model, compares the research status at home and abroad, and summarizes the challenges faced and corresponding countermeasures. Results: The CBE model is supported by theories such as constructivism, and its core elements include the construction of competency standards, the reconstruction of curriculum content, the innovation of teaching methods, and the reform of evaluation systems; foreign countries have established a mature system, while China is in the stage of localized exploration, with problems such as inconsistent competency standards; in response to the challenges faced, countermeasures such as establishing a collaborative mechanism are proposed. Conclusion: The CBE model is an important trend in nursing education reform. China needs to improve the dynamic adjustment mechanism of competency standards, strengthen resource construction, and promote the integration of information technology to cultivate high-quality nursing talents that meet clinical needs.