Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this concept analysis was to define the concept of “nurses’ role transition” by reviewing the literature and examining its characteristics within the context of the nurses’ new role.
Method: Searched were nine databases: CINAHL Plus with Full Text, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SocINDEX, ERIC, Ichushi Web, Saishinkangosakuin Web, JMEDPlus and CiNii. Search terms were: “role transition” “nurse” and “yakuwari-ikō” (relating to role or duties). Forty published articles meeting the criteria were analyzed using Rodgers’ evolutionary method of concept analysis.
Results: Seven attributes of the concept “nurses’ role transition” were identified: 1) the meaning of activities in new nursing fields; 2) approach to acquiring new activities; 3) expectations for new activities and desire for success; 4) searching for their professional identity; 5) emotional responses; 6) difficulties faced and 7) timeframe. Similarly, seven antecedents and four consequences were identified.
Conclusion: The nurses’ role transition was defined as a process of continuing to acquire new behavior patterns through new nursing activities or functions, which continued over a period of time and where nurses, committed to develop as nursing professionals, had found meaning in the activities and functions of new nursing fields.
