A guide to the selection and application of concept analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to provide practical guidance in the process of choosing a method to use for concept analysis (CA), a commonly used method for defining and exploring concepts in nursing. Best outcomes are achieved when there is close alignment between the concept, the purpose of the analysis, and the CA method utilized. This process has become complicated by the number of approaches developed in recent decades, with varying purposes and theoretical underpinnings.Other variables include the specific type of concept chosen and the purpose of the analysis, which may vary from clinical care to theory development to research design. The net result is a process that can be confusing for experienced and inexperienced scholars alike. An overview of the most common CA methods used in recent years, including theoretical underpinnings, intended uses, steps involved in the process, and recommended applications, is followed by detailed guidance in selecting a method to use for the specific concept to be analyzed. Also provided is a discussion of the factors to consider in choosing a concept for analysis. The desired outcome is the promotion of high-quality CA that advance the scholarship of nursing.

Trauma nursing competency in the emergency department: a concept analysis

“…The selection of the analysis method should align with the objectives of the analysis and the planned use of the results. 22 Walker and Avant’s concept analysis method is useful when clarifying widely used but poorly defined ambiguous concepts, dismantling concepts to reach accurate operational definitions, or guiding the development of evaluation tools and re-evaluating existing tools. 21 22 Therefore, we used the eight-step procedure of concept analysis outlined by Walker and Avant ( figure 1 ).…”

Was humpty dumpty right?: Towards a functional definition of e-learning

“…The research methodology adopted for this study combines a scoping study (Colquhoun et al, 2014;Munn et al, 2018) and a concept analysis (Richmond et al, 2022). Munn et al, (2018, p. 2) recommend using a scoping study to "clarify key concepts / definitions in the literature", or "identify key characteristics or factors related to a concept".…”

“…Munn et al, (2018, p. 2) recommend using a scoping study to "clarify key concepts / definitions in the literature", or "identify key characteristics or factors related to a concept". Richmond et al (2022) discuss a number of approaches to concept analysis, that involve identifying a concept, its uses, and attributes.…”