Trauma-Informed Professional Development: A Concept Analysis

Abstract

Goal: This study reports an analysis of the concept of trauma-informed professional development as it applies to staff nurses in health care organizations. Background: There is an urgent need for interventions to protect staff nurses from the psychological impact of traumatic events. By integrating the principles of trauma-informed care into professional development practices, nursing professional development practitioners have a unique opportunity to support nurses and help to promote recovery from trauma-related mental health outcomes. Data were obtained from a content searching service. Method: Walker and Avant's approach to concept analysis was used ( 2019 ). Results: An operational definition of the concept of trauma-informed professional development as applied to staff nurses in health care organizations was developed. Potential benefits include staff nurse well-being, empowerment, resilience, and enhanced competency. Potential consequences for health care organizations include increased staff morale and retention. Conclusion: By applying trauma-informed professional development activities, nursing professional development practitioners can minimize negative consequences when teaching topics that could unintentionally adversely affect some participants. [ J Contin Educ Nurs. 2024;55(2):69–77.]