Concept analysis is widely applied in nursing research, in the analysis of theconcept. It is a very handy concept for research in nursing sciences. This research paper purposes to examine and analyze two research articles, which contain similar concepts. The first research article is “Rethinking concept analysis” by Risjord (2009). The second article is by Tofthagen and Fagerstrom (2010).

The two articles show a difference in the way in which they define the concept they are dedicated to. The two articles have described concept analysis in nursing research. Tofthagen and Fagerstrom’s article is mainly about concept analysis as it was developed by Rodgers and it describes Rodgers concepts through the article. It encourages the adoption of concept analysis as a method of developing concepts in research. These authors adopt an approach of positive criticism of Rodger’s concept analysis, and show how good it is for developing new knowledge in nursing sciences. On the contrary, this approach adopted by Risjord brings out concept analysis as a confusing concept. Risjord postulates that the concept analysis has mixed interpretations in nursing sciences. Risjord argues with the comments of Rodgers; that concept analysis has no basis of clarity. This author thus wonders how such a concept, which has attracted different interpretations from different scholars, can lead to the development of a theoretical basis. The author agrees that there is confusion in trying to understand the contribution of concept analysis in nursing sciences. Overall, the approach taken by Risjord in explaining concept analysis is an evaluation of criticisms concerning Rodger’s concept analysis. This differs with Tofthagen and Fagerstrom article’s definition that views concept analysis as a very good method of developing knowledge in research.

The differences included in the definitions are very important, in the definition of concept analysis. Considering Tofthagen and Fagerstrom’s article, the manner in which they present concept analysis and argue for it, is very vital for scholars in nursing research. Many a times, researchers in nursing sciences have been faced with the problem of identifying a good scientific method to use in their research. By adopting the explanations of Rodgers, as clarified by Tofthagen and Fagerstrom (2010), they have a solution to such a problem. These two authors argue that the concept analysis is an analysis method that ensures validity. Validity is one aspect that is greatly sought after in a scientific research method. By convincing and proving that this method will ensure validity, it will be very beneficial in developing new knowledge in nursing. Tofthagen and Fagerstrom (2010) argue that the other advantage of concept analysis is being systematic, from the step of data collection to the stage of data analysis. The strength of this is seen in describing, explaining, as well as, clarifying concepts that are chosen while conducting research.

On the other hand, the fact that Risjord (2009) differs with Tofthagen and Fagerstrom’s article (2010) concerning concept analysis, is also important. The right to question a method concerning clarity and theoretical basis is the prerogative of the author. It is beneficial in presenting a deeper understanding of the application of concept analysis. A theoretical basis in research and any field is very valuable in developing new knowledge. In view of this, research method should provide a theoretical basis for it to contribute fully in the development of new knowledge in research (Chinn & Kramer, 2011). Going by the argument presented by Risjord (2009), concept analysis lacks such. It may not thus contribute in adding value to existing knowledge in the nursing profession.

The appropriateness and soundness of the definitions in the two articles is justifiable. Looking at the Tofthagen and Fagerstrom’s article, there was a very comprehensive review of literature on papers done between the years 1999 and 2009. A span of ten years is an appropriate span to analyze the effectiveness of a method that is already in use. When analyzing these materials, Tofthagen and Fagerstrom (2010) considered concept analysis in terms of validity, evolutionary process, and the ability of the method to participate in the development of knowledge. The authors came up with conclusions only after careful analysis of the research done by other scholars, and their own critical analysis. Having in mind that they made these considerations, it is justifiable to argue that the concept analysis’ definition by these two authors is sound, and appropriate.

The definition brought forward by Risjord (2009) is also justifiable. Rsisjord brings forward his conceptual interpretation of concept analysis as a postulation of independent concurring research of different authors. He also puts forward his own thoughts based on scholarly critique. For example, Risjord (2009) quotes the works of Walker and Avant (2005), Morse (1995), Paley (1996), and many others. The author gives clear postulation that was made by every article he has quoted before he arrives at his conclusion. The author also provides a scientific basis of taking such a stand concerning concept analysis. In consideration of these facts, it is justifiable to conclude that the concept analysis’ definition put forward by Risjord is sound and appropriate.

References

Chinn, P. L. & Kramer, M.K. (2011).Integrated theory and knowledge development in nursing (8^th ed). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier.

Risjord, M. (2009). Rethinking concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 65(3), 684-691. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2008.04903.

Tofthagen, R., & Fagerstrøm, L. M. (2010). Rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis – a valid method for developing knowledge in nursing science. Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, 24, 21-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-6712.2010.00845.x

Concept analysis
Assignment 3: Concept Synthesis Paper on Personal Nursing Philosophy

Overview

You are required to submit a scholarly paper in which you will identify, describe, research, and apply the concepts that underlie your personal philosophy for professional nursing practice.

This will help you identify your own values and beliefs about the established metaparadigms and metatheories of the discipline. It will also help you identify and articulate concepts relevant to your specific practice. This paper is intended to be an exercise in clarification and organization of your professional foundation. You are also required to provide a list of assumptions from personal nursing practice that illustrate the concepts and framework of your theory.

Your paper should follow a format that includes:

Nursing Autobiography: A brief (1 page) discussion of your background in nursing.

The Four Metaparadigms: Identification, discussion, and documentation from the literature of your perspective on the basic four metaparadigms/concepts of patient, nurse, health, and environment.

Two Practice-Specific Concepts: Identification, discussion, and documentation from the literature of your perspective on at least two other concepts specific to your own practice.

List of Propositions: A numbered list of at least five propositions or assumption statements that clearly connect the concepts described.

Each week, you will complete various segments of your Concept Synthesis Paper and submit it to the W1: Assignment 3 Dropbox for facilitator feedback when necessary. Your paper should integrate these discrete elements and reflect your personal nursing philosophy.

Your Concept Synthesis Paper on your Personal Nursing Philosophy is due in Week 3. However, it is recommended that you begin working on your paper from Week 1 onwards and complete the various components related to the paper week wise as you progress through the course. The suggested tasks for each week are:

Week 1: Nursing Biography and The Four Metaparadigms of Nursing
Week 2: Two Practice-specific Concepts, and List of Propositions/Assumptions
Week 3: Due: Concept Synthesis Paper on Personal Nursing Philosophy

Consider the following questions as you complete your various tasks related to this assignment.

1.
How do I define and employ the four basic metaparadigms of nursing theory in my professional practice?

2.
What are the major concepts I employ that are unique to my professional practice?

3.
What philosophies and theories from the literature of nursing and other disciplines/domains are consistent with these concepts?

4.
How are the concepts of transcultural nursing, the health promotion model, skill acquisition, role theory, and change theory specifically integrated into my philosophy and practice?

5.
What research supports these theories and concepts?

6.
How do I integrate role and change theory into my professional practice and how may these theories be applied to the organization in which I practice?

The paper is to be thoroughly researched and well documented, with relevant material from the nursing theorists presented incorporated into the paper. Use the current edition of the APA Manual throughout the paper. Sources should focus on references from nursing theory but may also include conceptual and theoretical material from other professional domains. The paper, excluding references or appendices, is to be limited to 6-10 pages. Writing should be succinct and well organized, as it is impossible for the facilitator to evaluate form and content separately.

Your philosophy/framework is to be given a title that is appropriate to its content and emphasis.

Grading of the paper will be based on the following:
Grading Criteria:
Maximum Points
Nursing Autobiography
The nursing autobiography included personal experiences in the field of nursing.
8
Provided an account of the current professional role of the student.
8
Included factors that guided decision making.
8
Quality of Essay
Enlisted the four metaparadigms.
8
The essay included a definition of the four metaparadigms of nursing with reference to professional practice.
8
The essay mentioned how the metapardigms were employed in nursing practice.
8
The essay enlisted two practice-specific concepts.
8
The essay included clinical examples for each of the chosen concepts.
8
The clinical examples illustrated the concepts in a manner, which further clarified the students’ use of the conceptual material.
8
The essay demonstrated consistency between concepts, assumptions, and clinical application.
8
The essay identified and discussed students’ perspective on two other concepts specific to their practice.
8
The essay included a numbered list of at least 5 propositions or assumptions.
8
The concepts were connected and integrated to reveal a meaningful sequence.
8
The essay demonstrated clarification and organization of the students’ professional foundation.
8
The essay demonstrated evidence of critical thinking in analysis and response.
8
The essay demonstrated understanding and integration of lecture material, reading assignments, and sources consulted.
8
Essay was well written, well organized, and articulate.
8
Presentation Criteria
The paper clearly demonstrated understanding of theoretical principles (i.e., concept development, definitions, assumptions, etc.)
3
The paper revealed clarity, organization, and articulation of ideas.
3
The paper showed that ideas were well-documented.
3
The paper revealed the breadth of research effort.
2
The paper demonstrated appropriate use of APA format in references and citations.
3
Total
150

Format

Your project paper should be in Microsoft Word 2010. Follow the current APA style. Your paper should be double-spaced, Times New Roman, and in 12 pt. font.

Concept analysis
Assignment 3: Concept Synthesis Paper on Personal Nursing Philosophy

Overview

You are required to submit a scholarly paper in which you will identify, describe, research, and apply the concepts that underlie your personal philosophy for professional nursing practice.

This will help you identify your own values and beliefs about the established metaparadigms and metatheories of the discipline. It will also help you identify and articulate concepts relevant to your specific practice. This paper is intended to be an exercise in clarification and organization of your professional foundation. You are also required to provide a list of assumptions from personal nursing practice that illustrate the concepts and framework of your theory.

Your paper should follow a format that includes:

Nursing Autobiography: A brief (1 page) discussion of your background in nursing.

The Four Metaparadigms: Identification, discussion, and documentation from the literature of your perspective on the basic four metaparadigms/concepts of patient, nurse, health, and environment.

Two Practice-Specific Concepts: Identification, discussion, and documentation from the literature of your perspective on at least two other concepts specific to your own practice.

List of Propositions: A numbered list of at least five propositions or assumption statements that clearly connect the concepts described.

Each week, you will complete various segments of your Concept Synthesis Paper and submit it to the W1: Assignment 3 Dropbox for facilitator feedback when necessary. Your paper should integrate these discrete elements and reflect your personal nursing philosophy.

Your Concept Synthesis Paper on your Personal Nursing Philosophy is due in Week 3. However, it is recommended that you begin working on your paper from Week 1 onwards and complete the various components related to the paper week wise as you progress through the course. The suggested tasks for each week are:

Week 1: Nursing Biography and The Four Metaparadigms of Nursing
Week 2: Two Practice-specific Concepts, and List of Propositions/Assumptions
Week 3: Due: Concept Synthesis Paper on Personal Nursing Philosophy

Consider the following questions as you complete your various tasks related to this assignment.

1.
How do I define and employ the four basic metaparadigms of nursing theory in my professional practice?

2.
What are the major concepts I employ that are unique to my professional practice?

3.
What philosophies and theories from the literature of nursing and other disciplines/domains are consistent with these concepts?

4.
How are the concepts of transcultural nursing, the health promotion model, skill acquisition, role theory, and change theory specifically integrated into my philosophy and practice?

5.
What research supports these theories and concepts?

6.
How do I integrate role and change theory into my professional practice and how may these theories be applied to the organization in which I practice?

The paper is to be thoroughly researched and well documented, with relevant material from the nursing theorists presented incorporated into the paper. Use the current edition of the APA Manual throughout the paper. Sources should focus on references from nursing theory but may also include conceptual and theoretical material from other professional domains. The paper, excluding references or appendices, is to be limited to 6-10 pages. Writing should be succinct and well organized, as it is impossible for the facilitator to evaluate form and content separately.

Your philosophy/framework is to be given a title that is appropriate to its content and emphasis.

Grading of the paper will be based on the following:
Grading Criteria:
Maximum Points
Nursing Autobiography
The nursing autobiography included personal experiences in the field of nursing.
8
Provided an account of the current professional role of the student.
8
Included factors that guided decision making.
8
Quality of Essay
Enlisted the four metaparadigms.
8
The essay included a definition of the four metaparadigms of nursing with reference to professional practice.
8
The essay mentioned how the metapardigms were employed in nursing practice.
8
The essay enlisted two practice-specific concepts.
8
The essay included clinical examples for each of the chosen concepts.
8
The clinical examples illustrated the concepts in a manner, which further clarified the students’ use of the conceptual material.
8
The essay demonstrated consistency between concepts, assumptions, and clinical application.
8
The essay identified and discussed students’ perspective on two other concepts specific to their practice.
8
The essay included a numbered list of at least 5 propositions or assumptions.
8
The concepts were connected and integrated to reveal a meaningful sequence.
8
The essay demonstrated clarification and organization of the students’ professional foundation.
8
The essay demonstrated evidence of critical thinking in analysis and response.
8
The essay demonstrated understanding and integration of lecture material, reading assignments, and sources consulted.
8
Essay was well written, well organized, and articulate.
8
Presentation Criteria
The paper clearly demonstrated understanding of theoretical principles (i.e., concept development, definitions, assumptions, etc.)
3
The paper revealed clarity, organization, and articulation of ideas.
3
The paper showed that ideas were well-documented.
3
The paper revealed the breadth of research effort.
2
The paper demonstrated appropriate use of APA format in references and citations.
3
Total
150

Format

Your project paper should be in Microsoft Word 2010. Follow the current APA style. Your paper should be double-spaced, Times New Roman, and in 12 pt. font.