Exnovation: A Concept Analysis

To conduct an in-depth concept analysis of exnovation, exploring its significance, conceptual mechanisms and impacts in administration, business and healthcare, particularly emphasising its relevance to nursing.

Exnovation is applicable in diverse fields, including information technology, manufacturing, business, education and cultural contexts; however, its utilisation in nursing and healthcare is limited and not widely adopted.

The literature for this concept analysis was retrieved from two databases, PubMed and Scopus. A systematic search approach was employed across studies from business, administration and health care, specifically without restriction based on the year of publication.

The article utilised Walker and Avant's 8-step approach to concept analysis, which entailed identifying the applications of the concept in various settings, its fundamental conceptual characteristics and developing model, borderline, related and contradictory instances. Additionally, the antecedents, consequences and empirical references of exnovation in nursing were established.

The analysis revealed both onomasiological approaches to elucidate the evolution of innovation terminology and a semasiological approach to explain the concept across various contexts. Moreover, it identified antecedents to innovation in nursing, such as technological advancements and the adoption of evidence-based practices (EBPs), while also delineating consequences primarily focused on enhancing quality patient care and job satisfaction.

As exnovation emerges as a novel concept in nursing and medical practice, further research is warranted to tackle the recognised limitations and formulate practical guidelines for effectively integrating exnovation within nursing and healthcare settings.