Trauma informed care in nursing: A concept analysis

Abstract

Background: Pandemic-related community-wide trauma on have forced examination of chronic stress exposure response.

Purpose: The aim of this concept analysis was to provide definition and framework for the conceptual meaning of trauma-informed care as foundation for all nursing professionals as we together meet the needs for a changing patient population in a post-pandemic world.

Methods: Using Walker and Avant's (2019) concept analysis method, exhaustive multidisciplinary and ancestry searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, ERIC, and PsychINFO with 15 relevant manuscripts that were evaluated for relevance to the concept analysis in the context of nursing.

Discussion: This analysis proposes a working definition of trauma-informed care in nursing to provide framework for clinical care and research inquiry. Trauma-informed care decreases the impact of psychological trauma for individuals within the healthcare system.

Conclusion: A comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to trauma through trauma-informed care requires universal recognition and screening. Targeted interventions create a system of healing through empowerment, relationship building, and reduction in trauma triggers.

Keywords: Concept analysis; Nursing; Trauma; Trauma-informed; Trauma-informed care.