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Biomarkers as a Concept for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Oncology
Brenna K Mcginn1, Sean M Reed2
1University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
Aim:
To report an analysis of the concept of biomarkers in oncology care for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).
Design:
Concept analysis.
Data Sources:
Literature from PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar published between 2015 and 2025 was reviewed to identify conceptual definitions, applications and theoretical discussions related to biomarkers.
Review Methods:
Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis approach was used to examine the antecedents, attributes, and consequences of biomarkers within oncology care. Literature was systematically reviewed to identify defining characteristics of the concept and to explore how biomarkers may inform nursing knowledge development and clinical practice. The PRISMA 2020 Checklist was utilized to ensure transparency, accuracy, and complete information.
Results:
Antecedents of biomarkers include advances in understanding human disease processes, recognition of cancer predisposition, and the pursuit of improved patient outcomes. Key attributes include objective biological indicators of disease and the capacity to support individualized approaches to oncology care. Consequences include improved disease outcomes, reduced treatment toxicity, and enhanced quality of life for patients. The analysis also identifies biomarkers as a theoretical niche for nursing. When incorporated into APRN practice effectively, biomarkers have the potential to influence patient communication, individualized care planning, and shared decision-making.
Conclusion:
Conceptualizing biomarkers within nursing broadens their significance beyond biomedical measurement and supports their integration into nursing practice, education, research, and policy in oncology care.
Impact:
This analysis reframes biomarkers through the APRN lens, emphasizing their role in enhancing patient communication, engagement, and shared decision-making. These findings have implications for APRNs, oncology patients, and the broader healthcare system by promoting more individualized, patient-centred care, strengthening the APRN role in precision medicine, and informing education and policy to improve patient understanding and participation in treatment decisions.
