Normalization of Deviance: A Nursing Concept Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare quality and safety
• Nursing practice and theory
• Organizational behavior

Background:

• Normalization of deviance is a growing concern in healthcare settings.
• Nurses may deviate from established standards for perceived efficiency, often influenced by production pressures.
• This gradual drift from standards can compromise patient safety and weaken the overall safety culture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the concept of normalization of deviance within the context of healthcare.
• To analyze the attributes, antecedents, and consequences of normalization of deviance.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis.
• The review focused on identifying key characteristics and implications of normalization of deviance.

Main Results:

• Three primary attributes contributing to normalization of deviance were identified: production pressure, desensitization leading to drift, and the prevailing culture of safety.
• These attributes highlight the complex interplay of factors leading to deviations from standard practices.

Conclusions:

• Understanding normalization of deviance is crucial for improving nursing theory and practice.
• Addressing this phenomenon can enhance the quality of nursing care and promote a more robust safety culture.
• Clarifying this concept provides consistency for a critical issue in the nursing profession.