Background: Caring is fundamental in nursing practice, highlighted by theorists as essential to the nurse's role. Among various care approaches, routine care (RC) stands out as critical and complex. Despite its widespread application, the dimensions of RC remain incompletely defined. This study aims to comprehensively analyse the concept of RC.
Method: This study utilised a conceptual analysis approach to delve into 'routine care,' employing the Walker and Avant Model (2019) as its framework. The analysis meticulously followed the eight systematic steps delineated by Walker and Avant. Comprehensive searches were conducted across diverse databases, including Ovid, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Nursing and Allied Health, EMBASE and ABI Inform Collection, using pertinent keywords. Notably, the search was not constrained by publication date but focused on articles congruent with the study's objectives. Subsequently, a thorough review of 347 pertinent articles was undertaken to augment the conceptual analysis.
Findings: The study clarifies the multifaceted nature of RC, emphasising its impact on enhancing patient outcomes and healthcare quality. It discusses both the positive and negative implications of RC for patients, healthcare providers and healthcare settings. Antecedents such as proper planning and education are crucial for successful implementation, with emphasis on continuous updating and adherence to established recommendations.
Conclusion: This study reveals the diverse dimensions of RC. Using these insights, future research can advance the development of practical tools and theoretical frameworks in nursing.
Keywords: Walker and Avant model; concept analysis; nurse; nursing care; practice; routine.
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