“Anraku” in Japanese Nursing—Concept Analysis Using Rodgers’ Approach

Abstract

Aim: Concepts evolve over time. Therefore, the characteristics of the concept “Anraku” may have changed as well. This study aims to identify the evolution of “Anraku” in Japanese nursing and its definition in literature.

Methods: The concept analysis method described by Rodgers & Knafl (2000) was used to analyze the data. The analysis of changes in “Anraku” over time was observed by 84 references between 1973 to 2020, and the attributes, antecedents, and consequences of the concepts were examined by 38 references from 2008 to 2020.

Results: Initially, it was perceived to be as the physical and psychological aspects of patients; however, later, it was later perceived more holistically. Three attributes of “Anraku” were identified: “relief,” “pleasantness,” and “individuality.” In Japanese nursing, “Anraku” is defined as a patient’s feeling of relief, pleasantness and their “individuality.”

Conclusions: The current characteristics of “Anraku,” which have evolved over time, were revealed. We believe that the attributes, antecedents, and consequences of “Anraku” can be utilized as assessment perspectives and nursing goals.