How to Create a Nursing Concept Map: Step-by-Step Guide
What Is a Nursing Concept Map?
A concept map is a visual diagram that shows relationships between nursing concepts, patient data, diagnoses, and interventions. It demonstrates your ability to connect clinical information in a meaningful way.
When Are Concept Maps Used?
Clinical preparation and post-conference
Nursing care planning alternative to traditional columns
Pharmacology: connecting drug classes to conditions
Pathophysiology: disease process visualization
Exam study aids
Step-by-Step Creation
Step 1: Identify the Central Concept
Place your main topic in the center:
Patient's medical diagnosis
Nursing concept (e.g., "Oxygenation")
System focus (e.g., "Cardiovascular")
Step 2: Identify Related Concepts
Branch out to related areas:
Assessment findings
Nursing diagnoses
Interventions
Expected outcomes
Medications
Lab values
Patient education
Step 3: Draw Connections
Use labeled arrows to show relationships:
"Leads to," "Caused by," "Treated with"
"Assessed by," "Monitored through"
"Educated about," "Prevented by"
Step 4: Add Supporting Details
Include specific data points:
Lab values with normal ranges
Vital signs
Medication doses and routes
Evidence-based rationales
Common Concept Map Formats
Spider/Radial: Central concept with branches radiating outward
Flowchart: Sequential process showing cause-and-effect
Hierarchy: Top-down organization from broad to specific
Network: Complex web showing multiple interconnections
Tips for Effective Concept Maps
Start with a clear central concept
Use colors to categorize information (assessment, diagnosis, interventions)
Label all connections with linking phrases
Include evidence: cite sources for interventions
Show clinical reasoning: why each connection matters
Keep it organized: use consistent layout and spacing