Transitions: A Nursing Concern

Abstract

Analysis is a methodological option in the development of knowledge in nursing. It is defined as a process of identifying parts and components, examining them against a number of identified criteria. Analysis includes both concept and theory analysis. Concept analysis is a useful process in the cycle of theory development and testing and may occur at many points in the process. A number of structures have been provided in the literature as guidelines for concept analysis. 1-4 Strategies for analysis depend on levels of knowledge development within disciplines. As the boundaries of nursing domain develop and are sharpened, analysis takes on new dimensions. The use of multidimensional components of analyses that are more congruent with level of development in nursing would help in further developing nursing knowledge. The components used in analysis of transition are presented below. These may be used sequentially or nonsequentially. 1. Definition, identification, and description of the different dimensions and components of the concept. In defining different dimensions, a description of some of the antecedents to the concept and some of the consequences is essential, matching some ofthese descriptions with what occurs in nursing practice. 2. Examination and analysis of concept congruency with existing nursing theories and other domain concepts. Note: The authors collaborated on this paper while Norma Chick was on sabbatical leave as a