Nursing is a profession that requires a blend of critical thinking skills, clear understanding of the basic concepts, amazing problem-solving skills and a sprinkle of some good decision making skills.

Yeah, I know that’s a lot to ask for. But trust me, a good nurse has all of those qualities. Their basic aim is to always provide the best care for their patients. So, one of their most powerful tool to achieve this goal is a Nursing Concept Map.

Sounds familiar? Well, no worries. No matter if you just know the basics or don’t know anything about it at all. In this blog today, we are going to dive deep into this concept and find out how it is a game-changer for nurses in patient’s care. Thus, I will tell you exactly how you can make it in very simple steps.

What Is a Nursing Concept Map?

I know you must be wondering that what this map is all about. So, you can say that it is a visual road map for nurses.

Yeah, a concept map nursing is a visual tool. Hence, it represents the relationships between various aspects of patient care.

You know it’s like planning things out before putting them to practice. It helps nurses in organizing the patient’s information in the most effective manner. Also, it helps them apply their theoretical knowledge to practice.

So, you can say that it’s like a junction that connects the patient’s information, assessments, diagnosis, interventions and outcomes to provide a holistic care to patients.

Why Are Nursing Concept Maps Important?

Well, I just told you. They are the basis for providing holistic care to patients.

You know, working as a nurse is not an easy job. Especially when you are taking care of more than one patient at a time. It is really difficult to remember every single thing about them. But there is no room for mistakes in nursing.

Even the slightest negligence by a nurse can lead to extreme consequences. So, that’s why I call this field a field of risks.

This is where this map turns out to be a blessing for nurses. It provides them with all the information they need in a simple manner. And help them enhance their learning.

Structures of Nursing Concept Map

Many structures were used to create these maps. But some of the most common concept map nursing examples:

⮚      Hierarchical map

As the name suggests. This Concept maps Nursing organized information in hierarchal manner from top to bottom. So, the main topic at the top. And most specific ones at the bottom.

⮚      Spider map

This is the most common ones. It highlights the main concept at the center. And the sub topics are featured in branches like a spider web.

⮚      Flowcharts

In this one, the information is arranged in a sequence or steps like a flowchart.

⮚      System map

Well, flowcharts and system maps are more or less alike. They are arranging in a sequence. But in systems map, both input and output are featured.

⮚      Chronological map

I know that sounds a little horrifying. But in this one, the information is visualized in a manner of timeline. Specifically, in chronic conditions.

⮚      Cause and effect map

This one is not used very commonly. Well, it basically highlights the cause and effect relationships of two variables. So, it helps in understanding the cause of disease.

Benefits of Using Nursing Concept Map

If you are still in doubt and wondering that how can it benefits nurses. Then let me tell you briefly that why are they so beneficial.

1. It helps in improving critical thinking skills among nurses. And helps them apply their theoretical knowledge to clinical practice.
2. This map simplifies the whole process and promotes effective communication.
3. Enhances the outcomes of patient care.

Steps to Create a Basic Nursing Concept Map

Well, that was not that hard right? Now, let’s jump in and see how you can create a good one for you.

Don’t worry, I have simplified the whole process for you. And you can hire Nursing assignment help UK as well to assist you.

1.      Gather Patient Information

So, the first step to create your nursing concept map template is to gather your patient’s information. This is the most crucial step. So, listen to them and note down everything.

2.      Identify the Key Issue

Well, you have listened what their problem is. So, identify the key issue in all of it and highlight it.

3.      Create a Central Concept

Now the first thing that you need to do is create a central concept for your nursing concept map.  Thus, your main concept is the primary medical condition of your patients. So, for instance, if it is diabetes. Just write it down in the middle and circle it.

4.      Determine Sub Concepts

Once you know about your central theme. It is time to identify your sub concepts. And hence branch them out from your main concept. These sub-concepts can be anything and commonly include:

• Diagnosis
• Evaluation
• Current condition
• Background Information
• Risks included
• Any symptoms
• Medications

5.      Time to Link Them

Now it is time to connect the dots. It’s like you have found all the pieces of your puzzle. Thus, now you must put them together to create a larger picture.

Well, you can link them with a line or dots. But connect all the related concepts together with your interventions to create a concept map nursing template.

6.      Write Expected Outcomes

This one is not really common. But you can add your expected outcomes in your plan as well with interventions.

So, that’s just it. See, It is not that difficult. Thus, just follow these steps and you will have your nursing school concept map ready for you.

Tips for Effective Nursing Concept Maps

So, here are some important tips that can really help you make a professional one for you.

1. Use colours and symbols in your map to make it more appealing.
2. Start with broader categories and slowly move to the specific ones.
3. Keep practising hard.

Final Words

In a nutshell, concept mapping nursing is an important component of a nursing field. So, it is helping nurses in organizing the most complex information into the simplest manner.

So, now you know how to create a good nursing concept map in such simple steps. I am sure that designing it won’t be a problem for you anymore. Just follow these steps and practice. Thus, you will ace it. Best of Luck!