Positive Nursing Practice Environment: A Concept Analysis.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: In recent years, research has increasingly highlighted the significance of nursing practice environments, linking positive settings with enhanced job satisfaction, professional autonomy, and care quality. Such environments can decrease turnover, stress, and costs while improving patient safety. Despite this extensive literature, there is limited consensus on defining a 'positive nursing practice environment', highlighting the need for a systematic analysis to advance understanding and application. This study aims to explore and clarify the concept of a 'Positive Nursing Practice Environment'. Methods: This study applied Walker and Avant's approach for concept analysis, conducting a comprehensive database search to gather relevant evidence. To review the available evidence on the concept of nursing practice environments, we followed the methodology proposed by JBI for scoping reviews. Results: The inclusion of 166 studies meeting the criteria provided a broad understanding of the topic, revealing 10 key attributes of a 'positive nursing practice environment' and identifying various antecedents and consequences affecting clients, nurses, and institutions. Conclusions: The concept analysis of a 'Positive Nursing Practice Environment' offers valuable insights into nurses' working conditions, systematically identifying characteristics that impact professionals, patients, and institutions. This analysis lays the groundwork for future research and practical improvements in nursing practice environments. This study was not registered.