Abstract:

Objective To review the current status of concept analysis research in the field of nursing published in Chinese core journals. Methods We searched CNKI，Wanfang Data for concept analysis studies published in 13 nursing journals indexed in the Peking University Core Journal List，Science and Technology Core Journal List，and CSCD from the inception of each database to February 28，2026. Textual analysis was used to analyze the literature. Results A total of 172 articles were included. The number of publications has increased significantly since 2020. Research topics were mainly concentrated in the fields of geriatrics，cancer，and chronic diseases. Of the included articles，83 articles（48.3%） adopted the Walker & Avant classic concept analysis method，while 62 articles（36.0%） adopted Rodgers’ evolutionary concept analysis method；67 articles（39.0%） did not explain the reason for their method selection. The construction of case examples was the most frequently missing step. Conclusion Concept analysis has garnered attention from nursing scholars in China，with the number of studies continuing to grow. Research topics closely align with the needs of nursing practice and national strategic directions. However，some studies still lack adequate reporting on conceptual questions，rationale for method selection，and subsequent developmental pathways. Future studies should begin with clarifying conceptual questions，select appropriate methods based on the characteristics of the concept，and strengthen the articulation of conceptual boundaries，operationalization，and subsequent validation and application pathways，so as to enhance the value of concept analysis for nursing knowledge development and clinical practice.

Key words: Nursing Science, Concept Analysis, Scientific Journals, Literature Analysis