Clarifying the Concept of Design Thinking in Nursing: A Concept Analysis Using Walker and Avant’s Method
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background Design thinking (DT) is a human‐centered, iterative approach to problem solving, increasingly applied in health sciences and nursing education. Although widely recognized as a valuable framework for innovation, the concept remains ambiguously defined within nursing. Objective This review aims to clarify the concept of DT in nursing using Walker and Avant’s method of concept analysis. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to September 2025. Walker and Avant’s eight‐step method guided the analysis, focusing on uses, attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of the concept. Results Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. DT in nursing was applied in education, clinical practice, and healthcare system innovation, enhancing creativity, critical thinking, empathy, collaboration, patient care, and satisfaction. Defining attributes included human‐centeredness, empathy, collaboration, creativity, iterative problem‐solving, and prototyping. Antecedents involved recognition of complex healthcare challenges, openness to innovation, organizational support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and resources. Consequences spanned patient, nurse, and system levels, including improved care, empowerment, and curriculum or system transformation. Empirical referents comprised competence scales, qualitative reports, educational evaluations, and organizational benchmarks. Conclusion DT in nursing is best understood as a structured, empathetic, and iterative process enabling nurses and students to cocreate innovative, patient‐centered solutions. Clarifying the concept enhances its integration into nursing education and practice, supporting innovation and improved healthcare delivery.
Source: Nursing Forum
DOI: 10.1155/nuf/6611144
Authors: Raziye Mazruee, Ahmad Nasiri
Institution: Birjand University of Medical Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $840
OpenAlex ID: W7203785345