Perception: A Concept Analysis

PURPOSE: Concept analysis methodology by Walker and Avant (2005) was used to define, describe, and delimit the concept of perception. DATA SOURCE: Nursing literature in the Medline database was searched for definitions of "perception." DATA SYNTHESIS: Definitions, uses, and defining attributes of perception were identified; model and contrary cases were developed; and antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents were determined. CONCLUSIONS: An operational definition for the concept was developed. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses need to be cognizant of how perceptual differences impact the delivery of nursing care. In research, a mixed methodology approach may yield a richer description of the phenomenon and provide useful information for clinical practice.