Concepts for Nursing Practice, 3rd Edition (Giddens)

The Challenge It Addresses

Nursing education is shifting from a traditional disease-centered model to a concept-based curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Many students and educators struggle with fragmented resources that do not align with this modern approach. Concepts for Nursing Practice, 3rd Edition directly addresses this gap by providing a streamlined, concept-focused framework that helps nursing students understand the core principles underlying patient care.

This textbook eliminates the need to memorize isolated facts by organizing knowledge around foundational concepts, enabling learners to apply what they know across diverse clinical situations. It is the key to thriving in today’s concept-based nursing programs.

About Concepts for Nursing Practice 3rd Edition – eBook by Giddens

Concepts for Nursing Practice, 3rd Edition is a comprehensive nursing textbook authored by Jean Foret Giddens, a leading figure in nursing education. Published by Elsevier in 2021, this third edition continues to lead the concept-based nursing education movement. The book organizes nursing knowledge around essential concepts—such as oxygenation, perfusion, mobility, and infection—rather than medical diagnoses or specific diseases.

This approach helps students build a mental schema for clinical reasoning. The book covers a comprehensive set of concepts, each presented in a consistent format: definition, exemplars, interprofessional relations, and nursing care. This edition includes updated content reflecting the latest evidence-based practices and evolving healthcare landscapes.

Who Is This Book For?

This textbook is designed for nursing students enrolled in concept-based curricula, particularly in associate degree or baccalaureate programs. It is also a valuable resource for nurse educators seeking a coherent framework for teaching. Additionally, practicing nurses preparing for certification exams or transitioning to new specialties will benefit from the concept-based review.

For students who find traditional textbooks overwhelming, this book offers a clear, logical structure that enhances understanding and retention. It is equally useful for self-directed learners and for classroom use.

Key Takeaways

• Concept-based nursing framework – How to organize clinical knowledge around fundamental concepts for better retention and application.
• Critical thinking and clinical judgment – Applying the nursing process within a concept-based model.
• Core nursing concepts – In-depth coverage of dozens of concepts with exemplars and nursing interventions.
• Evidence-based practice – Updated content reflecting current research and guidelines.
• Interprofessional collaboration – Understanding the role of different healthcare team members in concept-based care.
• Patient-centered care – Applying concepts to diverse patient populations across the lifespan.
• Exam preparation – Using the concept framework to succeed on NCLEX-RN and other nursing exams.

Why This Book Stands Out

Unlike traditional textbooks that organize content by disease or body system, this book uses a concept-based approach that mirrors how expert nurses actually think. Competing titles often rely on outdated models, but Giddens’ text is widely recognized as the definitive concept-based nursing textbook. The third edition has been refined based on extensive feedback from nursing programs across the country.

This edition also includes access to an eBook on VitalSource with interactive features, making it ideal for digital-first learners. The integration with Evolve resources (from Elsevier) provides additional learning tools that many alternatives lack.

Author & Publisher Credentials

Jean Foret Giddens, PhD, RN, FAAN, is a professor and dean at the University of Kansas School of Nursing. She is a nationally recognized leader in concept-based nursing education and has published extensively on the subject. Her textbook is used in numerous nursing programs across the United States. Elsevier is a world-leading publisher of health science content, known for rigorous peer review and commitment to evidence-based education.

The combination of a pioneering author and a trusted publisher ensures that the content is both authoritative and current.

The Bottom Line

Absolutely. For any nursing student or educator committed to a concept-based curriculum, this is the definitive text. The consistent chapter structure reduces cognitive load and promotes deep learning. The digital version offers convenience and portability, and the content is up-to-date with current nursing standards. At a competitive price point, the eBook provides excellent value compared to print editions.

This edition is a sound investment for your nursing education and career.

Get Your Copy Today

Whether you are a nursing student looking to excel in your concept-based program or an educator seeking a proven teaching resource, this eBook gives you immediate access to the leading concept-based nursing textbook. Save money and space with the digital edition. Add to cart now and begin mastering the concepts that define modern nursing practice.

This 3rd edition from Elsevier ensures you are learning from the most current and trusted source available.