The Role Conflict of Nurses: A Concept Analysis

Background: This study aimed to understand the attributes and concepts of role conflict among nurses.Methods: Using Walker & Avant’s (2014) concept analysis framework, a literature search was conducted in the PubMed, cumulative index to nursing and allied health literature (CINAHL), PsycINFO®, regional information sharing systems (RISS), and DBpia databases using the search terms ‘Nurse’ or ‘Nursing’ and ‘Role conflict’ or ‘Role ambiguity’ or ‘Role strain.’ A total of 55 articles were included in this study.Results: Role conflict among nurses was defined as conflicts occurring across various dimensions, including individual, interpersonal, role- and system-related. The antecedents of role conflict included excessive workload, job stress, and manpower shortages. The consequences of role conflict included lower quality of nursing care, emotional burnout, and increased turnover.Conclusions: This concept analysis provides a clear definition of role conflict among nurses, enhances understanding of the concept, and provides foundational data for nursing practice and systems.