Concept analysis: the importance of differentiating the ontological focus

Abstract

The theoretical shift from context-bound empirical analysis of concepts belies the complexity of nurses' work. Concepts are unapologetically context-bound. A concept that transcends context (based on realist ontology) will remain the same even when the context of praxis changes limiting its utility.

Concept analysis in healthcare research

“…He presented the argument that concepts are contextually bound tools for communication and as such needed to be critically analysed so that their meaning could be clarified leading to appropriate use (Duncan et al, 2007). What was of concern to Wilson was delineating the criteria used to determine what counts as the concept.…”

“…Debates abound as to the meaning of concepts, their ontological and epistemological foundations and the methods by which they should be analysed. Moreover, the literature is replete with interchangeable or synonymous use of terms such as concept analysis, concept development, delineation and clarification (Duncan et al, 2007) with the result that little clarity exists for the novice theorist or researcher.…”

Taking the responsibility in dementia care: A concept analysis about facticity

“…This method is the most frequently used in nursing science and it is one of the first one that theoretically discuss concepts of the nursing sciences area (Duncan, Duff Cloutier, & Bailey, 2007). This method has been criticized and modified but it is still used, many studies are applying it.…”

Best practice during intrapartum care: A concept analysis

“…Wilson's method (1963), used by the researcher, departs from an ontological ideal that is closer to a naturalistic inquiry epistemology and a relativist contextbound ontology (Duncan et al, 2007). The researcher used eight out of eleven steps as outlined by Wilson.…”