Healing: analysis of the concept.

Healing, a concept familiar to many nurses has recently gained wide recognition and use in both professional and lay circles. In spite of the wide use and scrutiny of the term, the concept remains confusing and inexact. Lack of clarity in meaning leads to multiple definitions, communication problems and difficulties in measurement and theory development. Continued discussion and examination of healing and related concepts will help nurses more clearly define this important concept. The Walker and Avant method of concept analysis can be applied to the concept healing for exploring and clarifying its meaning. Healing, as defined here, is a natural, active and multidimensional process that is individually expressed with common patterns. Body condition, personal attitudes and relationships influence healing.