A Guide to Concept Analysis Angela S. Foley, MSN-HCSM, RN n Alison H. Davis, PhD, RN, CHSE F or the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) engaged in re- search or evidence-based practice (EBP), a concept analysis can provide guidance when a concept of in- terest does not have sufficient literature, is vaguely defined, or is not understood clearly or when literature and research do not match. 1 Once the concept is more concrete, the CNS can explore and determine a study design or measurement tool. There are several approaches to a concept analysis in- cluding, but not limited to, the approaches by Chinn and Jacobs, 2 Walker and Avant, 3 Rodgers, 4 and Sartori. 5 The purpose of this article is to provide insight into a concept analysis through definitions, purpose, and procedures and provide an example of a concept analysis on empathy using the Rodgers method of evolutionary concept analysis. DEFINITIONS A concept represents a symbol or a building block of a bigger spectrum; it is the basis of what the researcher wants to pursue. 6 In nursing, research can be applied through the use of EBP. Research is a methodical and rigorous inquiry, which provides answers to questions surrounding phenom- ena. 7 Evidence-based practice is the gathering, evaluation, and integration of research in combination with clinical ex- pertise to inform nursing practice. 6 Research and EBP both rely on a clear understanding of what is being studied or the concept, which has been chosen by the researcher. A concept analysis can be defined as the dissection of a concept into simpler elements to promote clarity while providing mutual understanding within nursing. 1 If the researcher notes a lack of clarity surrounding the concept, a concept analysis should be undertaken to achieve a better understanding of the concept. A concept analysis can elucidate the meaning of the concept in current use, which can contribute to the future development of the concept. 2 RODGERS APPROACH TO CONCEPT ANALYSIS Rodgers 4 offered a method of concept analysis referred to as an evolutionary view of concepts, which ‘‘addresses contemporary concerns valuing dynamism and interrela- tionships within reality.’’ 4(p332) After the recognition of the concept to be studied, it must be clearly defined. Because concepts for analysis are sometimes vague or confusing to the CNS researcher, simply using 1 definition would be insufficient to the researcher. All associated conceptual de- scriptions must be uncovered for the CNS researcher to clearly understand the depth of a concept. Rodgers 6 stressed that the significance of the concept to nursing should be clearly delineated in other fields, occurrences, and/or pro- fessions, as well. Rodgers’ 4 approach to concept analysis includes 7 phases, which can be carried out simultaneously and not necessar- ily in a linear manner. However, for clarity, these phases are described linearly. The phases of concept analysis are to 4 1. identify and name the concept of interest; 2. identify the surrogate terms and relevant uses of the concept; 3. select an appropriate realm (sample) for data collection; 4. recognize attributes of the concept; 5. ascertain the references, antecedents, and consequences of the concept, if possible; 6. identify concepts related to the concept of interest; and 7. generate a model case of the concept. The Table delineates these phases and provides an example of an abbreviated concept analysis. Identify and Name the Concept of Interest To begin the dissection of the identified concept of interest, the CNS researcher must begin with the meaning to nurs- ing. An initial review of the literature provides insight into an elusive concept because the researcher can discover what is known, not known, or confusing about a concept. Author Affiliations: Nursing Instructor (Ms Foley) and Assistant Professor of Nursing (Dr Davis), Louisiana State University Health - New Orleans. The authors report no conflicts of interest. Correspondence: Angela S. Foley, MSN-HCSM, RN, Louisiana State University Health - New Orleans, 1900 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70112 (ascani@lsuhsc.edu). DOI: 10.1097/NUR.0000000000000277 70 www.cns-journal.com March/April 2017 Clinical Nurse Specialist A Copyright B 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved. Using Research to Advance Nursing Practice Column Editor: Jan Foster, PhD, APRN, CNS Copyright © 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.