E-Professionalism in Nursing: A Concept Analysis Using Walker and Avant's Method

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the concept of e-professionalism in nursing and to propose a conceptual framework applicable to digital and psychiatric-mental-health contexts. Methods: Walker and Avant's concept-analysis method was applied to a systematic literature review across seven databases covering 2000~2025. Forty-five eligible studies were analyzed through content analysis to identify defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents. Results: Six defining attributes were identified: professional value embodiment, ethical accountability, identity coherence, self-regulation, privacy and boundary management, and digital literacy. Antecedents included technological proliferation, limited digital-ethics education, and organizational culture, while consequences included strengthened ethical awareness and patient trust. E-professionalism was conceptualized as a moral-technological synthesis integrating ethical reasoning and digital competence. Conclusion: This framework provides theoretical and practical guidance for nurses to navigate online communication and maintain professional integrity. Incorporating e-professionalism into nursing curricula and institutional policies can promote ethical decision-making, boundary management, and patient safety in digital care environments.