Qualitative Content Analysis in Nursing Research: Methodological Foundations, Challenges, and a Structured Six-Phase Approach

This paper proposes a six-phases structured model for qualitative content analysis, which can be applied both inductively and deductively. Background/Objectives: The aim was to contribute to the methodological development of qualitative content analysis by addressing its application, theoretical foundations, and challenges in nursing research and nursing education. Method: Qualitative content analysis is one of the most frequently used analytical approaches in nursing research. Despite its widespread application, methodological descriptions often vary considerably across the studies. This variability may reduce transparency and make it difficult to conduct rigorous and trustworthy analysis. We suggest that qualitative content analysis is best situated within the naturalistic paradigm which emphasizes the researcher’s interaction with those being research and focusing on people’s subjective experiences. A structured six-phase approach to enhance rigor and transparency in the analytical process is suggested. Additionally, it discusses trustworthiness using the concepts of credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability. Results: By providing a systematic and transparent analytical framework, this paper aims to strengthen methodological consistency and support the production of rigorous qualitative research in nursing.