Cox Angela, Copeland Darcy
About the Authors Angela Cox, MSN, RN, is assistant professor of nursing, Western New Mexico University, Silver City, New Mexico. Darcy Copeland, PhD, RN, is associate professor of nursing, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado. For more information, contact Angela Cox at
Nurs Educ Perspect. 2024;45(3):155-160. doi: 10.1097/01.NEP.0000000000001221. Epub 2024 Jan 16.
The aim of this concept analysis was to develop a comprehensive definition of nursing student success.
Nursing student success has traditionally been viewed as timely program completion and passing the licensure exam on the first attempt. Little consideration has been given to holistic indicators of success that are inclusive of student well-being and mastery of self-care skills.
Nursing student success was examined using Walker and Avant's eight-step process of concept analysis.
This concept analysis defined nursing student success in a holistic manner characterized by the achievement of performance standards, acquisition of nursing knowledge, skills, and competencies, and attainment of educational goals while experiencing a state of personal thriving.
This concept analysis highlights the need for academic programs and accrediting bodies to embrace holistic perspectives of nursing student success that are inclusive of student well-being and mastery of self-care skills.
