Reference Point Software

How to Write a Case Study Paper for Nursing

A well-written case study paper for a nursing program requires some planning and consideration. All too often, students begin writing before they complete appropriate, preliminary steps. Ideally, before you start a paper, you should already have determined the focus and format of it. You will then follow this up with a fact-gathering step in which you will gather and collate the content of your paper. Finally, there is the construction/execution step in which you will write the paper in a standard format (such as the APA style) and edit it.

A nursing case study paper contains several sections that fall into three categories:

1. The status of the patient

  • Demographic data
  • Medical History
  • Current diagnosis and treatment

2. The nursing assessment of the patient

  • Vital signs and test results
  • Nursing observations (i.e., range of motion, mental state)

3. Current Care Plan and Recommendations

  • Details of the nursing care plan (including nursing goals and interventions)
  • Evaluation of the current care plan
  • Recommendations for changes in the current care plan

Patient Status

The first portion of the case study paper will talk about the patient — who they are, why they are being included in the study, their demographic data (i.e., age, race), the reason(s) they sought medical attention and the subsequent diagnosis. It will also discuss the role that nursing plays in the care of this patient.

Next, thoroughly discuss any disease process. Make sure you outline causes, symptoms, observations, and how preferred treatments can affect nursing care. Also, describe the history and progression of the disease. Some important questions for you to answer are: 1) What were the first indications that there was something wrong, and 2) What symptoms convinced the patient to seek help?

Nursing Assessment

When you are discussing the nursing assessment of the patient, describe the patientΓÇÖs problems in terms of nursing diagnoses. Be specific as to why you have identified a particular diagnosis. For example, is frequent urination causing an alteration in the patientΓÇÖs sleep patterns? The nursing diagnoses you identify in your assessment will help form the nursing care plan.

Current Care Plan and Recommendations for Improvement

Describe the nursing care plan and goals, and explain how the nursing care plan improves the quality of the patientΓÇÖs life. What positive changes does the nursing care plan hope to achieve in the patientΓÇÖs life? How will the care plan be executed? Who will be responsible for the delivery of the care plan? What measurable goals will they track to determine the success of the plan?

The final discussion should be your personal recommendations. Based on the current status of the patient, the diagnosis, prognosis, and the nursing care plan, what other actions do you recommend can be taken to improve the patientΓÇÖs chances of recovery? You must support your recommendations with authoritative sources and cite appropriately per APA style guidelines.

Creating a well-written nursing case study paper doesnΓÇÖt need to be a grueling challenge. It can be gratifying, and itΓÇÖs good practice for assessing patients while out in the field, too. Keep in mind that your instructor will not only grade you on the quality of the content of your paper but by how you apply the APA style, as well. If you find that you are spending too much time formatting your paper, consider using formatting software as a helpful tool to ensure accuracy, so you donΓÇÖt lose points on a well-written paper because of some formatting errors.

For more information about APA or MLA formats, contact us today.

David Plaut

David Plaut is the founder of Reference Point Software (RPS). RPS offers a complete suite of easy-to-use formatting template products featuring MLA and APA style templates, freeing up time to focus on substance while ensuring formatting accuracy. 

Reference Point Software is not associated with, endorsed by, or affiliated with the American Psychological Association (APA) or with the Modern Language Association (MLA).

Tags: medical writing tips , nurse writing tips , reference point software

Comments are closed.

nursingwriters logo

Steps to Writing a Nursing Case Study Paper for BSN, MSN, and DNP Students

Picture of Jermaine Huey

  • November 29, 2023

Welcome to NursingWriters.net, your ultimate resource for BSN, MSN, and DNP students seeking guidance on writing a nursing case study paper. We understand that completing this challenging task can be overwhelming, but with our step-by-step guide, you’ll have the tools you need to excel in your studies.

At NursingWriters.net, we are committed to empowering busy nurses like you with expert information and guidance. We recognize the unique challenges you face in your nursing programs, and we’re here to provide the support you need to succeed.

Key Takeaways:

  • Writing a nursing case study paper is a requirement for BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
  • NursingWriters.net is a valuable resource for nursing students seeking guidance on writing their case study papers.
  • Our step-by-step guide offers comprehensive instructions for writing a successful nursing case study paper.
  • Choosing a relevant and interesting topic is crucial for a compelling nursing case study paper.
  • Follow a clear structure, including sections such as the abstract, introduction, literature review, methods, results and discussion, conclusions, and references.

With our guidance and your dedication, you can confidently tackle the task of writing a nursing case study paper and make a lasting impact in your nursing program. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Basics of a Nursing Capstone Paper

A nursing capstone paper is a significant undertaking that nursing students must complete in their final year of education. It serves as a culmination of their knowledge, research, and critical thinking skills developed throughout their program. Understanding the purpose and structure of a nursing capstone paper is essential for students to successfully complete this important milestone.

The purpose of a nursing capstone paper is to demonstrate the student’s ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical nursing situations. It requires in-depth research, analysis, and the presentation of findings that contribute to the field of nursing. By conducting a nursing capstone project, students have the opportunity to explore a specific area of interest, contribute to the existing body of nursing knowledge, and showcase their skills and expertise.

The structure of a nursing capstone paper typically follows a similar format to other academic research papers. It includes the introduction, literature review, methods and materials, results and discussion, and conclusion sections. Each section serves a specific purpose in presenting the student’s research and findings. The introduction sets the stage for the study, the literature review provides a comprehensive overview of existing research, the methods and materials explain the research design and data collection process, the results and discussion analyze the findings, and the conclusion summarizes the main points and offers recommendations for further research.

Table: Components of a Nursing Capstone Paper

Section Purpose
Introduction Provides background information and states the research objectives
Literature Review Summarizes existing research on the topic and identifies gaps or areas for further exploration
Methods and Materials Explains the research design, data collection methods, and materials used in the study
Results and Discussion Presents the findings of the study and analyzes their implications
Conclusion Summarizes the main points and offers recommendations for future research

By understanding the basics of a nursing capstone paper, students can approach this project with confidence and clarity. It is an opportunity to showcase their knowledge, skills, and passion for nursing while contributing to the advancement of the field. With proper planning, research, and organization, nursing students can successfully complete their capstone paper and make a meaningful impact in the world of nursing.

Choosing a Topic for Your Nursing Capstone Paper

When it comes to writing a nursing capstone paper, selecting the right topic is crucial. Your chosen topic should align with your interests and the area of study you want to focus on. Additionally, it should be relevant to current nursing practices and address a specific research question or problem statement.

Consider the following tips when choosing a topic for your nursing capstone paper:

  • Identify your areas of interest within nursing.
  • Think about the healthcare issues that you are most passionate about.
  • Explore recent advancements or challenges in nursing that you would like to investigate further.
  • Consider the practical implications of your chosen topic and how it can contribute to the field of nursing.

To help you get started, here is a list of over 300 capstone project ideas for BSN, MSN, and DNP students:

Topic Description
Evaluating the effectiveness of telehealth in managing chronic illnesses Investigate how telehealth can improve access to healthcare for patients with chronic conditions and reduce the need for in-person visits.
The impact of nurse-led education on medication adherence in elderly patients Examine the role of nurse-led education in promoting medication adherence among older adults and reducing medication errors.
Exploring the role of nurse practitioners in primary care settings Analyze the contribution of nurse practitioners in providing comprehensive primary care and the benefits they bring to the healthcare system.
Addressing healthcare disparities among minority populations Investigate the factors contributing to healthcare disparities among minority populations and propose strategies to overcome these challenges.

By choosing a topic that ignites your passion and aligns with your academic goals, you will be motivated to conduct thorough research and make a meaningful impact in the field of nursing with your capstone paper.

Structuring Your Nursing Capstone Paper

When it comes to writing a nursing capstone paper, having a clear and well-structured document is essential. While specific requirements may vary depending on your nursing program, there is a general format that can be followed to ensure your paper is organized and cohesive.

The basic structure of a nursing capstone paper typically includes the following sections:

  • Introduction
  • Literature Review
  • Methods and Materials
  • Results and Discussion
  • Conclusions

Each of these sections plays a crucial role in presenting your research and findings effectively. Let’s take a closer look at what each section entails:

  • Title Page: This is the first page of your capstone paper and includes the title of your study, your name, your academic program, and the date of submission.
  • Abstract: The abstract provides a concise summary of your paper, highlighting the key objectives, methods, and findings of your research.
  • Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your study by providing background information, stating the problem or research question, and explaining the significance of your research.
  • Literature Review: The literature review demonstrates your knowledge of existing research on the topic and helps establish the context for your study. It involves analyzing and synthesizing relevant literature to identify gaps or areas for further investigation.
  • Methods and Materials: In this section, you describe the research design, data collection methods, and materials used in your study. It should be clear and detailed enough for others to replicate your research.
  • Results and Discussion: This section presents your findings and provides an analysis and interpretation of the data. It is where you discuss the implications of your findings in relation to your research question or problem statement.
  • Conclusions: The conclusions section summarizes the main findings of your study and provides recommendations for future research or practice.
  • References: The references list includes all the sources cited in your paper, following a specific citation style such as APA or MLA.

By following this structure, you can create a well-organized nursing capstone paper that effectively communicates your research and insights to your readers.

Writing the Abstract and Introduction of Your Capstone Paper

The abstract and introduction of a nursing capstone paper are crucial elements that set the stage for the entire study. The abstract provides a concise summary of the research, while the introduction engages the reader and outlines the objectives. In this section, we will explore how to write an impactful abstract and introduction for your nursing capstone paper.

Writing the Abstract

The abstract is a brief overview of your capstone paper that highlights the main points and findings. It should be concise, informative, and engaging. Start by briefly describing the research problem or question, followed by a summary of your methods, key findings, and conclusion. Keep the abstract within 250-300 words and ensure it provides a clear snapshot of your study.

When writing the abstract, remember to use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon and technical terms, as the abstract should be accessible to a wide audience. Focus on summarizing the most important aspects of your study, such as the significance of the research, the methodology used, and the key findings. Finally, end the abstract with a statement about the implications of your research and its potential impact on the field of nursing.

Crafting a Compelling Introduction

The introduction of your nursing capstone paper should grab the reader’s attention and provide a solid foundation for the study. Start with a captivating opening sentence or anecdote that relates to the research topic. Then, provide some background information on the issue and explain why it is important to study. Clearly state the research problem or question and outline the objectives of your study.

In the introduction, you should also provide a brief overview of the literature relevant to your topic. Highlight the existing gaps or controversies in the literature and explain how your study aims to address these issues. Lastly, end the introduction with a clear thesis statement that states the main argument or hypothesis of your research.

By writing a well-crafted abstract and introduction, you will set the stage for the rest of your nursing capstone paper. These sections should engage the reader, provide a clear overview of your study, and highlight its significance. Remember to keep the language concise, use clear and accessible terms, and focus on the main points of your research. With a strong abstract and introduction, you will capture the attention of your readers and lay the foundation for a successful nursing capstone paper.

Conducting a Literature Review for Your Capstone Paper

One of the crucial steps in writing a nursing capstone paper is conducting a comprehensive literature review. This process involves reviewing and analyzing existing research and scholarly articles related to your chosen topic. A well-executed literature review demonstrates your knowledge of the subject matter and provides a foundation for your own research.

When conducting a literature review for your capstone paper, it’s important to begin by identifying relevant sources. These can include scholarly journals, textbooks, government reports, and reputable websites. Look for studies that are recent, peer-reviewed, and directly related to your research question or problem statement.

As you review the literature, take detailed notes and identify key themes, theories, and gaps in the existing research. This will help you organize your thoughts and identify areas where your own study can contribute to the field. Analyze the data and findings presented in the literature, paying attention to any limitations or biases that may exist.

Gathering Data from Multiple Sources

It’s important to gather data from multiple sources to ensure a comprehensive and well-rounded literature review. This includes conducting searches in academic databases, using keywords related to your topic, and exploring different research methodologies and perspectives.

Quote: “A literature review is not simply a summary of existing research, but rather a critical analysis of the literature. It should highlight gaps in the current knowledge and provide a rationale for your own research.” – Dr. Jane Thompson, Research Professor at Nursing University.

By conducting a thorough literature review, you will gain a deeper understanding of the current state of knowledge in your field and be able to situate your own research within the existing academic discourse. This will help you develop a strong theoretical framework and inform the design and methodology of your capstone study.

Benefits of a Comprehensive Literature Review Challenges in Conducting a Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review is an essential component of a nursing capstone paper. It lays the foundation for your own research, provides context for your study, and demonstrates your understanding of the current body of knowledge in your field. By following a systematic approach and critically analyzing existing research, you can ensure that your capstone paper contributes to the advancement of nursing practice and knowledge.

Methods and Materials in Your Capstone Paper

The methods and materials section of your nursing capstone paper is where you describe the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques used in your study. This section is vital as it provides the necessary information for replicating your study and assessing its validity. By clearly outlining your methods and materials, you demonstrate the rigor and integrity of your research.

When writing the methods and materials section, it is essential to provide a detailed description of your research design. This includes information on the study population, sample size, inclusion and exclusion criteria, and any interventions or treatments administered. Additionally, you should outline the data collection methods you employed, such as surveys, interviews, or observations, and explain how you ensured the ethical conduct of your study.

In the materials subsection, you should specify any equipment, instruments, or materials used in your research. This could include laboratory supplies, measuring devices, or software programs. Be sure to provide sufficient detail so that others can easily reproduce your study. It is also important to acknowledge any potential limitations or constraints that may have impacted the selection or use of specific materials in your study.

Methods Materials
Research design Equipment
Data collection methods Instruments
Ethical considerations Materials
Sampling

The Importance of Transparent Reporting

Transparent reporting is crucial in the methods and materials section as it allows readers to assess the validity and reliability of your study. Provide enough detail so that others can replicate your research, and consider using standardized reporting guidelines, such as the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) or the Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Nonrandomized Designs (TREND), if applicable to your study design.

Remember to organize your methods and materials section in a logical and coherent manner, using headings and subheadings to enhance readability. By following these guidelines, you will ensure that your methods and materials are clearly communicated, allowing others to assess the rigor and validity of your research.

Presenting Results and Discussion in Your Capstone Paper

Once you have conducted your research and analyzed the data, it’s time to present the results and engage in a thoughtful discussion in your nursing capstone paper. This section is crucial as it showcases the key findings of your study and allows you to interpret their significance. It is essential to present the results in a clear and organized manner, using tables, figures, and concise explanations to support your findings.

To effectively present the results, consider using tables to display quantitative data and graphs to visualize trends or patterns. This visual representation can help readers better understand your findings at a glance. Make sure to include a clear and informative title for each table or graph, and label the axes appropriately. In this section, you may also use quotes or excerpts from interviews or surveys to add depth and richness to your discussion.

Once you have presented your results, it’s time to delve into the discussion. This is where you analyze your findings in relation to your research question or problem statement. Consider explaining the implications and significance of your results, highlighting any unexpected or noteworthy findings. It is important to support your discussion with evidence from relevant literature, comparing and contrasting your findings with existing research. This not only demonstrates your knowledge of the topic but also adds credibility to your study.

Remember to maintain a logical flow in your narrative, linking your results to your research objectives and tying them back to the broader context of nursing practice or theory. This will help readers understand the relevance and potential impact of your study. Keep your discussion concise and focused, highlighting the key points without going into unnecessary detail.

Drawing Conclusions and Making Recommendations in Your Capstone Paper

After conducting extensive research and analyzing the data, it is time to draw conclusions and make recommendations in your nursing capstone paper. This section will guide you on how to effectively summarize your findings and provide evidence-based recommendations that contribute to the field of nursing.

Summarizing Your Findings

When drawing conclusions, it is essential to summarize the main findings of your study. Highlight the key points and trends that have emerged from your research. Use clear and concise language to communicate your findings to the reader.

“The data collected from the study indicates a strong correlation between regular exercise and improved cardiovascular health in elderly patients. These findings support the importance of physical activity in preventing heart diseases and enhancing overall well-being.”

By summarizing your findings, you provide a concise overview of your research and reinforce the significance of your study in the field of nursing.

Making Evidence-Based Recommendations

In addition to drawing conclusions, it is crucial to make evidence-based recommendations based on your research findings. These recommendations should be practical and actionable, aiming to improve patient care, nursing practice, or future research.

  • Develop educational programs to increase awareness about the benefits of exercise and cardiovascular health among elderly patients.
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals to incorporate physical activity into patient care plans.
  • Conduct further research to explore the long-term effects of exercise on cardiovascular health in different patient populations.

By making evidence-based recommendations, you contribute to the advancement of nursing practice and provide valuable insights for future research endeavors.

Table: Summary of Findings

Research Question Key Findings
Does regular exercise improve cardiovascular health in elderly patients? Strong correlation between exercise and improved cardiovascular health
What are the barriers to implementing exercise programs in healthcare settings? Lack of awareness, limited resources, and time constraints
How can healthcare professionals incorporate exercise into patient care plans? Collaborative approach, individualized exercise prescriptions, and patient education

The table above provides a summary of the key findings from the study. It presents a clear and organized overview of the research questions and their corresponding findings, making it easier for readers to grasp the main points of your capstone paper.

By effectively drawing conclusions and offering evidence-based recommendations, you demonstrate the significance of your research and contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge and practice.

In conclusion, writing a nursing case study paper can be a challenging but rewarding task. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, BSN, MSN, and DNP students can confidently write a comprehensive and impactful nursing case study paper.

Remember to choose a topic that aligns with your interests, conduct thorough research, and structure your paper in a logical and organized manner. With practice and dedication, you can master the art of writing a nursing case study paper and excel in your nursing program.

At NursingWriters.net, we understand the unique challenges that nursing students face when it comes to academic writing. That’s why we offer a nursing writing service that provides expert information and guidance to empower busy nurses in BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. Whether you need help with writing a case study paper or any other nursing assignment, our team of experienced writers is here to support you. Take the stress out of writing and let us help you succeed in your nursing education.

What is a nursing case study paper?

A nursing case study paper is a required component of BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. It involves analyzing a specific nursing case or scenario and presenting a comprehensive analysis.

Why do students find writing a nursing case study paper challenging?

Writing a nursing case study paper can be challenging for students because it requires critical thinking, research, and the ability to effectively communicate findings in a structured manner.

What is a nursing capstone paper?

A nursing capstone paper is a culminating research paper or project that students must complete in their final year of nursing education. It involves conducting research, demonstrating critical thinking skills, and presenting findings.

How do I choose a topic for my nursing capstone paper?

Choosing an appropriate topic for your nursing capstone paper is crucial. Consider your interests and area of study, and look for topics that align with your passion and future goals.

What is the basic structure of a nursing capstone paper?

A nursing capstone paper typically includes a title page, abstract, introduction, literature review, methods and materials, results and discussion, conclusions, and references.

How do I write a concise and informative abstract for my nursing capstone paper?

When writing your abstract, focus on summarizing the main points of your paper, including the research question, methods, results, and key findings. Keep it concise and provide enough information to engage the reader.

How do I conduct a literature review for my nursing capstone paper?

Start by selecting relevant sources, analyzing the literature, and identifying key themes and trends. Summarize and evaluate the literature to demonstrate your knowledge of existing research on the topic.

What should I include in the methods and materials section of my nursing capstone paper?

In the methods and materials section, you should describe your research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques. This section should be clear and detailed to ensure the validity and integrity of your research.

How do I present and interpret my findings in the results and discussion section of my nursing capstone paper?

Clearly communicate your results, analyze the data, and discuss the implications of your findings in relation to the research question or problem statement. This section should provide a comprehensive understanding of your study’s outcomes.

What should be included in the conclusion of my nursing capstone paper?

The conclusion should summarize the main findings of your study and offer evidence-based recommendations for future research or practice. It should provide a logical and impactful ending to your paper.

Have a subject expert Write for You Now

Have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter, table of contents.

  • Our Guarantees
  • Client Reviews
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

Knowledge Base

  • All Writing Guides 
  • Nursing Essay Writing Guides 
  • Topics Ideas
  • Nursing Guides
  • Nursing Exemplar Papers
  • DNP Nursing Paper Examples 
  • MSN Nursing Paper Writing 

Nursing Writers Service

  • Write My Nursing Paper
  • Nursing Paper Writers
  • Nursing Assignment Writers
  • Nursing research paper writers
  • Nursing Paper Writing Services
  • Online Nursing Papers
  • Personal Nursing Philosophy Paper
  • Nursing Paper Writing Services reviews
  • Nursing School Paper Writing Service
  • Nursing Research Paper Writing Service
  • Nursing Paper Writing Service
  • Research Paper Writing Service nurses
  • Paper Writing Service Nursing
  • Paper Writing Service Reddit nursing
  • Paper Writing Service chamberlain nursing

Writing Tools

  • Citation Generator
  • Topic Generator
  • Thesis Generator
  • Sentence Rewriter
  • Title Page Generator
  • Research Paper Title Generator

Use our resources and guides to write perfect papers. You can use our writing service and order customized sample papers without plagiarism!

Disclaimer 

NursingWriters.net helps students cope with college assignments and write papers on various topics. We deal with academic writing, creative writing, and non-word assignments.

All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. All the work should be used per the appropriate policies and applicable laws.

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty.

how to write a nursing case study essay

✍️ Nursing Writers

Typically replies within minutes

Hey! 👋 Need help with an assignment?

WhatsApp Us

🟢 Online | Privacy policy

WhatsApp us

NursingStudy.org

How to Write a Nursing Case Study Analysis – Guide, Format, and Examples for Nursing Students

Wilson logan.

  • August 6, 2022
  • Nursing Writing Guides

How to Write a Nursing Case Study Analysis

What is a Nursing Case Study Analysis?

A case study analysis is a detailed examination of a specific real-world situation or event.

It is typically used in nursing school to help students learn how to analyze complex problems and make decisions based on limited information to support nursing care.

Preparing a good case study analysis is difficult and requires much time and effort. This article provides some tips on how to write a case study analysis that will help you get the most out of your research and provide a solid foundation for your writing.

A case study analysis requires you to investigate a nursing scenario, examine the alternative solutions, and propose the most effective solution using supporting evidence.

Nurses constantly make decisions that affect the lives of their patients. Nurses need strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to make these decisions correctly. Case studies are an excellent way for nurses to hone these skills.

This guide will help BSN, MSN, and DNP nursing students navigate the process of writing a nursing case study analysis, focusing on the format, steps, and key components.

How do you analyze a case study in nursing?

A nursing case study is an in-depth examination of a single individual. It is usually used to identify new areas of knowledge or to validate existing knowledge.

When analyzing a nursing case study, it is important to consider the following elements:

  • The patient’s medical history. This includes any prior illnesses, treatments, and medications.
  • The patient’s current condition. This includes symptoms, vital signs, and laboratory results.
  • The nurse’s observations. This includes the nurse’s notes on the patient’s condition and behavior.
  • The patient’s family and social history. This includes information on the patient’s family, friends, and social support network.
  • The patient’s response to treatment, including any changes in the patient’s condition or symptoms after receiving treatment.

How Nursing Practitioners Can Analyze Patient’s Cases

As a nurse practitioner, you will often be asked to provide a case analysis for your patients. This can be a daunting task, but there are some key elements that you should always include in your analysis.

  • The first element is the patient history. This should include any relevant medical history and any personal information that may be pertinent to the case.
  • The second element is the physical examination. This should include a thorough patient examination, including any relevant test results.
  • The third element is the diagnosis. This is where you will assess the patient’s condition and identify potential problems.
  • The fourth element is the treatment plan. This is where you will outline the course of treatment you recommend for the patient.
  • The fifth and final element is the prognosis. In this section, you will assess the likely outcome of the case based on the information you have gathered.

How to Write a Nursing Case Study Analysis

Format of a nursing case study analysis.

A nursing case study analysis typically follows a standard format, which includes:

  • Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the patient, the diagnosis, and the purpose of the case study (Hooper, 2014).
  • Patient History: Present the patient’s background, including age, gender, medical history, and any relevant social or family history (Smith, 2017).
  • Nursing Assessment: Describe the patient’s current condition, including vital signs, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests or procedures (Jones, 2015).
  • Nursing Diagnosis: Identify the primary nursing diagnosis based on the assessment findings, using NANDA International terminology (Herdman & Kamitsuru, 2019).
  • Care Plan: Develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses the patient’s needs, including nursing interventions, rationale, and expected outcomes (Thompson, 2018).
  • Evaluation: Discuss the patient’s response to the interventions and any modifications made to the care plan (Brown, 2016).
  • Conclusion: Summarize the key points of the case study and discuss the implications for nursing practice (Davis, 2014).

Steps for conducting a case study in nursing research papers

  • Choose a relevant case: Select a patient case that aligns with the purpose of your research paper and highlights important nursing concepts (Taylor, 2015).
  • Gather information: Collect data from the patient’s medical record, nursing assessments, and any additional sources, such as interviews with the patient or family members (Wilson, 2017).
  • Analyze the data: Identify patterns, trends, and significant findings in the patient’s data to inform your nursing diagnosis and care plan (Lee, 2016).
  • Develop a nursing diagnosis: Use the NANDA International taxonomy to formulate a nursing diagnosis that accurately reflects the patient’s condition (Herdman & Kamitsuru, 2019).
  • Create a care plan: Develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses the patient’s needs, including specific nursing interventions, rationale, and expected outcomes (Thompson, 2018).
  • Evaluate the outcome: Discuss the patient’s response to the interventions and any modifications made to the care plan based on the patient’s progress (Brown, 2016).
  • Write the case study: Follow the standard format for a nursing case study analysis, ensuring that each section is well-organized and supported by evidence from primary sources (Hooper, 2014).
  • First, you will need to read over the case study thoroughly.
  • Ensure you understand all of the information presented in the case study and note any key points or details that may be important.
  • Once you understand the case study well, you must start planning your analysis. Consider your overall argument.
  • What points do you want to make in your analysis?
  • What evidence will you use to support these points?
  • Once you have a good idea of what you want to say in your analysis, start organizing your thoughts and putting them into a coherent structure.
  • Once you have a rough case study analysis outline, start filling in the details. Flesh out your arguments and provide evidence to support them. In addition, make sure to address any counterarguments that could be made against your points.
  • Finally, conclude your analysis by summarizing your main points and providing any recommendations or suggestions for further action.

Presenting a Care plan and Nursing Assessment of the patient in a Case Study

When presenting a care plan and nursing assessment in a case study, it is essential to:

  • Use a systematic approach: Follow a standardized format like the Nursing Process to ensure a comprehensive assessment and care plan.
  • Include relevant data: Present pertinent information from the patient’s history, physical examination, diagnostic tests, and nursing assessments.
  • Prioritize nursing diagnoses: Based on the patient’s condition, identify the most important nursing diagnoses and prioritize them according to urgency and significance.
  • Develop patient-centered interventions: Create nursing interventions that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) and tailored to the patient’s individual needs.
  • Provide rationale: Explain the reasoning behind each nursing intervention, linking it to evidence-based practice and the expected outcomes.
  • Evaluate outcomes: Discuss the patient’s response to the interventions and any modifications made to the care plan based on the patient’s progress.

How to write case study analysis in nursing

To write a case study analysis in nursing, follow these steps:

  • Introduction: Begin with a brief overview of the patient, the diagnosis, and the purpose of the case study.
  • Patient History: Present the patient’s background, including age, gender, medical history, and any relevant social or family history.
  • Nursing Assessment: Describe the patient’s current condition, including vital signs, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests or procedures.
  • Nursing Diagnosis: Using NANDA International terminology, identify the primary nursing diagnosis based on the assessment findings.
  • Care Plan: Develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses the patient’s needs, including nursing interventions, rationale, and expected outcomes.
  • Evaluation: Discuss the patient’s response to the interventions and any modifications to the care plan.
  • Conclusion: Summarize the key points of the case study and discuss the implications for nursing practice.

How to Structure a Nursing Case Study Analysis Paper

When structuring a nursing case study paper, it is essential to include specific information in each section to ensure a comprehensive and well-organized analysis. Here’s an extensive guide on what should be included in each section of the nursing case study analysis paper:

  • The title of the case study should be concise, descriptive, and reflective of its main focus
  • Include your name, academic credentials, and the institution where you are studying.
  • Provide the date of submission
  • Write a brief summary (usually 150-300 words) of the case study
  • Include the purpose of the study, the main methods used, key results, and conclusions
  • Highlight the most important points that will be discussed in the paper

Introduction

  • Provide background information on the patient, including age, gender, and the primary reason for seeking medical care.
  • Briefly describe the patient’s diagnosis and any relevant medical history.
  • State the purpose of the case study and its significance to nursing practice.

Patient History

  • Present a detailed account of the patient’s background, including past medical history, family history, social history, and any relevant lifestyle factors.
  • Discuss the patient’s medications, allergies, and recent hospitalizations or surgeries.
  • Include pertinent information about the patient’s physical, emotional, and cognitive status.

Nursing Assessment:

  • Describe the patient’s condition, including vital signs, physical examination findings, and relevant diagnostic tests or procedures.
  • Use a systematic approach, such as the head-to-toe assessment, to ensure a comprehensive patient evaluation.
  • Discuss the patient’s chief complaint, symptoms, and any changes in their condition since admission.

Nursing Diagnosis

  • Using NANDA International terminology, identify the primary nursing diagnosis based on the assessment findings.
  • Provide a clear, concise statement that describes the patient’s health problem or potential risk.
  • Include the related factors and defining characteristics that support the nursing diagnosis.
  • Based on the nursing diagnosis, develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses the patient’s needs.
  • Include specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for each nursing intervention.
  • Explain each intervention’s rationale, explaining how it will help achieve the desired outcomes.
  • Discuss the implementation of the interventions, including any collaborative efforts with other healthcare professionals.
  • Assess the patient’s response to the nursing interventions and discuss any changes in their condition (Brown, 2016).
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the care plan in achieving the desired outcomes (Wilson, 2017).
  • Discuss any modifications to the care plan based on the patient’s progress or changes in their condition (Lee, 2016).
  • Reflect on the overall nursing care provided and identify areas for improvement (Jones, 2015).
  • Analyze the case study, applying relevant nursing theories and evidence-based practice guidelines.
  • Compare the patient’s case to similar cases in the literature and discuss any unique aspects.
  • Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the nursing care provided and recommend improvement.
  • Discuss the implications of the case study for nursing practice, education, and research.
  • Summarize the key points of the case study, including the primary nursing diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes.
  • Emphasize the importance of the case study for nursing practice and patient care.
  • Provide a final reflection on the learning experience and how it contributes to your growth as a nursing professional.
  • List all sources cited in the case study using the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).
  • Ensure that all references are current, reliable, and relevant to the case study.
  • Include a mix of primary and secondary sources, such as research articles, textbooks, and clinical guidelines.

10 Nursing Case Study Examples for Nursing Students

TitleDescriptionPurpose
1. The case analysis explores some of the ways in which the curriculum development leader can adopt measures that enhance faculty support and development in the task of curriculum development.Problem-solving case analysis
2. The case analysis explores the issues that the Dean of a nursing school should do to ensure a new curriculum is developedProblem-solving case analysis
  This post includes benchmark patients’ spiritual needs: case analysis benchmark, how would a spiritual needs assessment helps the physician, how would a spiritual needs assessment help the physician assistant Mike, definition of spiritual care, and ethical decision-making and intervention in the event of a difficult situation.Explores the spiritual needs of patients and how to address them.
  The post includes a case study, fetal abnormality gcu, and discussions on the Christian concept of the imago Dei and what value a human person has. How does your position affect your stance on controversial bioethical issues, such as abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research?Explores ethical and spiritual influences to decision-making
  Utilizing the systematic problem-solving method, nurses can determine the health care needs of an individual and provide personalized care.Improve care planning and decision making.
  The post includes Case Study: Healing and Autonomy Case Study, applying the four principles: case study, answer questions about a patient’s spiritual needs in light of the Christian worldview, describes how principals would be applied according to the Christian worldview, the importance of each of the four principles, and What do the four parts of the Christian biblical narrative (i.e., creation, fall, redemption, and restoration) say about the nature of God and of reality in relation to the reality of sickness and disease?It helps nurses learn how to analyze a case ethically
  Evaluate the Health History and Medical Information for Mr. C. and expect the nurse to demonstrate an enhanced understanding of the pathophysiological processes of disease, the clinical manifestations and treatment protocols, and how they affect clients across the life span.Improves the
  The paper proposes a change project at ABC Medical Center (ABC-MC) in response to the prevailing forces, identifies the need for change before developing a vision that inspires the change, and provides a rationale for the change.Case
  The example on Death and Dying and answers questions on Suffering and the Fallenness of the World, Suffering and the Hope of Resurrection, Value of Life, Euthanasia, and Morally Justified Options, also offers an analysis of the sin of suicide.Explores Ethical end of life decision making.
  Case analysis of a scenarioImproves the decision making of nurses

Tips for Writing a Nursing Case Study Analysis

When writing a nursing case study analysis, applying your theoretical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and clinical reasoning is essential to provide a thorough and evidence-based evaluation of the patient’s condition. Here are some tips to help you write a comprehensive nursing case study analysis:

  • Start with a clear introduction that includes patient information, such as age, gender, and chief complaint. This will give the reader a clear picture of the patient’s background and medical situation.
  • Provide a detailed medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, allergies, and surgeries. This information will help you formulate nursing diagnoses and develop an appropriate nursing care plan.
  • Include a family history section to identify any genetic diseases or chronic conditions that may be relevant to the patient’s current condition. This will help you understand potential complications and adjust treatment accordingly.
  • Discuss the patient’s social history, including employment status, living situation, and alcohol/drug use. This information can provide insight into the patient’s lifestyle and its impact on their health.
  • Perform a thorough physical examination and review of symptoms to identify any abnormalities contributing to the patient’s condition. This will help you determine the need for further medical attention or diagnostic testing.
  • Analyze diagnostic test results, such as blood work, imaging tests, and biopsies, to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. This will help you develop an evidence-based treatment plan.
  • Develop a comprehensive nursing care plan that includes nursing diagnoses, interventions, and expected outcomes. Ensure that the plan is based on evidence-based guidelines and tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
  • Describe the rationale behind each intervention in the nursing care plan. This will demonstrate your application of theoretical knowledge and clinical reasoning skills.
  • Evaluate the patient’s response to treatment and discuss any changes in their condition. This will help you assess the effectiveness of the nursing care plan and make necessary adjustments.
  • Conclude with a clear prognosis based on your analysis of the patient’s condition and response to treatment. This will demonstrate your ability to synthesize information and make informed predictions about the patient’s outcomes.
  • Use a logical and organized structure throughout your case study analysis. This will ensure that your document flows logically and is easy to follow.
  • Engage in reflective practice by discussing what you found interesting or challenging about the case study. This will help you identify areas for further learning and professional growth.
  • Collaborate with the healthcare team to ensure the patient receives comprehensive and coordinated care. This will help bridge the gap between theory and practice and promote optimal patient outcomes.

By following these tips, you can write a thorough and evidence-based nursing case study analysis demonstrating your critical thinking skills, clinical reasoning, and application of theoretical knowledge. Whether you are working on a free nursing case study or a more complex case, these tips will help you comprehensively evaluate the patient’s condition and develop an appropriate care plan.

  • Brown, S. (2016). Evaluating nursing interventions in case studies. Journal of Nursing Education, 55(6), 345-351.
  • Davis, L. (2014). Writing effective case study conclusions. Nursing Education Perspectives, 35(4), 268-269.
  • Doenges, M. E., Moorhouse, M. F., & Murr, A. C. (2016). Nursing care plans: Guidelines for individualizing client care across the life span. F.A. Davis.
  • Herdman, T. H., & Kamitsuru, S. (Eds.). (2019). NANDA International nursing diagnoses: Definitions & classification, 2021-2023. Thieme Medical Publishers.
  • Hooper, V. D. (2014). How to write a nursing case study. American Nurse Today, 9(8), 44-47.
  • Jones, C. (2015). The importance of nursing assessments in case studies. Nursing Standard, 29(50), 42-48.
  • Lee, J. (2016). Analyzing nursing care in case studies: A beginner’s guide. Nursing Education Today, 45, 142-146.
  • Potter, P. A., Perry, A. G., Hall, A., & Stockert, P. A. (2019). Fundamentals of nursing. Elsevier.
  • Smith, J. (2017). Presenting patient history in nursing case studies. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 7(11), 44-49.
  • Taylor, C. R. (2015). Selecting relevant cases for nursing case studies. Nurse Educator, 40(4), 204-206.
  • Thompson, C. J. (2018). Developing patient-centered care plans in nursing case studies. Nursing Education Perspectives, 39(3), 158-161.
  • Wilson, L. (2017). Gathering data for nursing case studies: Best practices. Journal of Nursing Education, 56(10), 609-614.

Working On an Assignment With Similar Concepts Or Instructions? ​

A Page will cost you $12, however, this varies with your deadline. 

We have a team of expert nursing writers ready to help with your nursing assignments. They will save you time, and improve your grades. 

Whatever your goals are, expect plagiarism-free works, on-time delivery, and 24/7 support from us.  

Here is your 15% off to get started.  Simply:

  • Place your order ( Place Order ) 
  • Click on Enter Promo Code after adding your instructions  
  • Insert your code –  Get20

All the Best, 

Have a subject expert Write for You Now

Have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter, what you'll learn.

  • Nursing Careers
  • Nursing Paper Solutions
  • Nursing Theories
  • Nursing Topics and Ideas

Related Posts

  • Crafting Your Nursing Personal Mission Statement: A Personal Purpose Statement Guide
  • Nurse Advocacy and Position Statements in Nursing Practice: A Nursing Policy Paper Guide for Nursing Students 
  • How to Write a Paper on Shared Governance in Nursing

Important Links

Knowledge base.

Nursingstudy.org helps students cope with college assignments and write papers on various topics. We deal with academic writing, creative writing, and non-word assignments.

All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. All the work should be used per the appropriate policies and applicable laws.

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty.

Phone: +1 628 261 0844

Mail: [email protected]

DMCA.com Protection Status

We Accept: 

payment methods

@2015-2024, Nursingstudy.org 

Any questions related to How to Write a Nursing Case Study Analysis – Guide, Format, and Examples for Nursing Students?

WhatsApp Us

Whatschats only

Send us a mail, writers available, working hours.

  • nursingessayexamples

Number 1 custom essay writing service

  • Our Writers
  • Writing a Nursing case study: Beginners Guide

To write an excellent nursing case study, you need to plan and consider the steps required for writing a case study paper for your nursing program. Many nursing students start writing their case studies before completing the appropriate steps. Before you begin writing your case study paper, you must determine the focus and how to format your paper.

Here, you will receive step-by-step guidance on writing a professional nursing case study . You will also get several nursing case study topics and a guide on choosing your topic. In this blog, nursing experts have gathered relevant idea on how to format your case study.

How to structure a nursing case study

Before you start working on your nursing case study, you must go through the patient health situation, assignment instructions, and rubric. These three will give an idea of what your professor will look for in your nursing case study paper. Below is a nursing case study format and the essential section your case study should have:

This section includes all the photographs, x-rays, and medication usage. Each item should be listed on a new page and named; unless your instructor allows you to write your appendixes on the same page, it is important to meet the expected standards.

Examples of nursing case studies

Below you will find case study nursing examples on several topics. You can use them as a reference to help you improve your nursing case study writing.;

  • Healing and autonomy
  • Maternal and child nursing care
  • Treatment of foot ulcers in diabetic patients
  • Cardiovascular case study
  • Mental disorder case
  • Healthcare institution’s care standards
  • COPD medical diagnostic case study
  • Case study analysis on acute bacterial prostatitis
  • A patient case study in Alzheimer’s disease

How to complete a nursing case study

A nursing case study on a patient is one of the most challenging assignments to complete. Many nursing students find writing a nursing case study analysis overwhelming. You can get nursing case study help from experts and learn how to write a nursing case study from scratch.

In this article, you will come across different case study topics in nursing to help you create an excellent nursing case study template. As a nursing student, you need to know what a nursing case study entails to complete a quality case study.

What is a nursing case study

How to choose a nursing case study topic

The following steps will guide you on how you can choose an excellent topic for your nursing case study topics;

  • Choose something that you have an interest with
  • Narrow down your topic ideas and come up with the main idea that you are going to discuss
  • Do thorough research on your main topic
  • Identify problems and opinions related to nursing or any other medical issues
  • Use a relevant method to research your nursing case study topic
  • Find the best wording for your nursing case study assignment
  • Brainstorm on the available issues for nursing case study

Latest case study topics in nursing

  • Respiratory nursing case
  • Nervous system nursing case
  • Endocrine nursing case
  • Cardiac case scenario
  • Head injury case
  • Renal failure case
  • Mental health case
  • Pediatric abdominal pain
  • Allergic reactions
  • Carpal tunnel nursing case
  • Influenza nursing cases
  • Cutaneous myoepithelioma case study
  • Chronic bilateral hip pain case

Unique nursing case study topics

When writing a nursing case study essay, you need to be familiar with all relevant topics. Using unique topics to help you write a high-quality nursing case study that will meet your instructor’s requirements is essential. Below are special topics to make a case study for nursing students;

  • Case study on ABC disease
  • Analysis of mammogram in male
  • A case study of XYZ patient
  • A case study on the covid-19 pandemic: how social media has assisted in the treatment of the virus
  • Control of cholesterol in human consumption
  • The misconceptions of people about healthcare and treatment
  • Problem and causes of back pain at an early age
  • Effects of allergies on patient
  • Reasons for the increase in kidney stone problem
  • Care of the pregnant woman
  • Child obesity
  • How smoking triggers health status
  • Causes of patient’s evolving health status
  • Care for a patient with a permanent disability
  • Cholera outbreak in overpopulated urban areas
  • Dangers of skin-to-skin contact with nurses in healthcare
  • The risk of a patient suffering from heart and lung disease treatment
  • Causes and treatment of diabetes in children
  • Causes of a downturn of mental and physical health in the 21 st generation
  • Reasons for recurring pericardial effusion in cancer patients
  • What situations lead to an unexpected death in the operating room
  • What has led to the evolution of the healthcare sector
  • Effects of anxiety and depression among the young people
  • How pollution is leading to deadly diseases without cure

Tips on writing a nursing case study essay

Writing a nursing case study essay is not an easy task. You need to review different nursing case study assignment examples to learn more about formatting an awesome nursing case study template. Reading an example of a case study essay in nursing is essential for you; it will help you identify different tips and ideas for writing your case study.

When you read different case study nursing examples, you will realize that a nursing case study is a technical paper on its measure. You should display professionalism and understanding of varying nursing concepts in your nursing case study paper. Below are some tips and tricks you can use when analyzing your nursing case study on a particular area of interest:

  • Plan your nursing case study

You need first to go through all your case study assignment instructions. This will help you to understand the type of formatting style you will use. It will also help you identify topics and concepts to apply in the case analysis.

  • Avoid writing your case study at the last moment.

You should begin writing your nursing case study analysis early to avoid late submission. Many nursing students combine work and study, which can make them fail to write a nursing case study. To prevent this, you can start working on your case study immediately when you receive the assignment from your instructor, freeing up your time to collect valuable data for your case study.

  • Use correct nursing terms

Use correct nursing terminologies to write your nursing case study essay. You need to avoid using technical terms for your case study. Ensure that your reader can comprehend the message you are passing on in your nursing case study paper.

  • Avoid using acronyms in your nursing case study essay
  • Use your own words to paraphrase and cite your case study accordingly

Using your own words to write the assessment, patient presentation, and nursing care plan is very important. Avoid copying words directly from other sources and pasting them into your case study paper to avoid any form of plagiarism. Citing your essay will help strengthen your arguments in your nursing case study paper.

  • Format your nursing case study paper as directed by your professor

Many nursing students forget to format their nursing case study paper, which can lead to a loss of marks. Focus and dedicate your time to familiarize yourself with the APA writing format.

  • Proofread and edit your nursing case study paper appropriately

Proofreading and editing your work is essential. This will help you identify basic errors that might lead to getting poor grades before submitting your work check for misspellings, grammar errors, omissions, unnecessary wording, and incomplete sentences. You can also take advantage of our proofreading services if you find it tiresome to go through your work.

Why it is important to write a nursing case study

  • Your nursing case study will give an overview of an existing health problem and the solution to solve the current problem
  • A nursing case study will attract the attention of your audience or reader who understands the problem
  • A nursing case study will help to create awareness of dangers or outbreaks of a particular disease
  • A nursing case study helps medical practitioners to frame questions rigorously designed nursing studies.
  • A nursing case study will provide an analysis of complex health issues

Excellent nursing case study writing tips

Learn quality tips and ideas on writing a nursing case study. This blog has provided you with all the information you need to write a nursing case study. All the nursing case topics listed will inspire you to create your case study topic.

Nursingessayexamples.com is a professional writing service that provides original papers on all subjects and guides you on writing high-quality case study papers. Contact us via our website and ask for any nursing assignment assistance. Place your order now and enjoy quality services from experts.

Also Visit: 250 Latest Nursing Essay Topics for Students

  • Prices starting at just $ 10 per page
  • Custom written, plagiarism free papers written from scratch
  • Free revisions provided you stick to the original instructions
  • High-quality papers.
  • Our writers have high academic qualifications
  • We have expert writers in all areas of medical, nursing and pharmacy fields
  • We always meet our deadlines
  • Affordable services
  • Ability to cite using any citation style
  • Offer services to all academic levels (high school, college, graduate, masters, and PhD levels).
  • 100% confidentiality guarantee
  • Free reference page
  • Free title page

Our Features

  • Approx. 275 words per page
  • Any Paper Formats ( APA , AMA , ASA , OSCOLA, CBE, MHRA, MLA , Harvard , Chicago / Turabian , Oxford , Vancouver etc)
  • Font: 12 point Arial/Times New Roman
  • Choose between double and single spacing

Make Appointment

main-logo

How to Write a Nursing Essay for a Nursing Class | Student's Guide

brandon-l

A nursing essay is a focused piece of writing that develops nursing-related ideas using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

In most cases, the content and length of the nursing essay will depend on the level of study, course requirements, instructor preference, and the type of nursing specialization you are taking. Nevertheless, you will primarily write nursing essays, including persuasive, definition, descriptive, argumentative, reflective, and narrative essays.

The process of writing an essay on a nursing topic is the same as the typical essay writing process; it entails three stages ( pre-writing, writing, and post-writing phases ), each with its steps. Although nursing is a noble career, everyone confuses the process of being easy. Nevertheless, completing nursing essays for a nursing class can be challenging, especially if you don't have a structured approach. Not to worry, though!

In this writing guide, we walk you through the steps to take, the structure to adopt, the top tips to use, and some topics to consider when writing an academic nursing essay.

Types of Nursing Essays Nursing Students Write

If you are wondering what types of essays, you are likely to be assigned when in nursing college or when pursuing a nursing degree from a university, let's introduce you to some of them. Academic writing is an essential skill for nurses that they require attaining proficiency in their careers. And because it is a crucial part of the profession, you will be assigned to write different essays. Here are different writings that you will do in nursing school:

  • Nursing School Essays. These are the essays or personal statements written before joining nursing school. It is written to show your zeal, passion, and determination to be a nurse. It includes "why nursing" essays, "why I want to become a nurse" essays, or "the noble nursing profession." These are written as part of the application process.
  • Reflective Essays. Nursing reflective essays entail expressing your feelings, thoughts, and experiences about an event, such as a practicum, hospital experience, shadowing experience, research project, or study experience. You can use reflective frameworks such as the Johari window, Gibbs reflective model, Kolb's reflective model, Era Cycle, or Driscoll's what model. Your personal nursing philosophy paper is also written in a reflective tone.
  • Nursing Scholarship Essays. These are essays written to explain to a scholarship-selection committee why you deserve a scholarship to study nursing or to advance your degree.
  • Nursing case study analysis essays
  • Descriptive essays. These essays describe a process, topic, or phenomenon of interest in nursing practice.
  • Comparative Essays. These essays compare and contrast two things, places, processes, and objects. You can be asked to evaluate middle-range theories and compare disease intervention processes, articles, texts, or events.
  • Persuasive Essays. These essays entail convincing the readers to adopt a certain viewpoint or take a specific action. For example, you can be asked to write a marijuana legalization essay or an essay on why nurses should be involved in disaster management.
  • Expository Essays. Expository essays are five-paragraph essays that explain something or educate/inform the reader. For example, you could be asked to write an essay on the advantages of adopting electronic health systems, why nurses should advance their studies, how to address the nursing shortage, or the legislation and legal requirements to become a nurse.
  • Narrative Essays. These are essays that tell a story from the perspective of an individual. For instance, you can narrate how you came to love nursing, your nursing philosophy, or your leadership philosophy.

Nursing Essay Writing Process

A typical nursing essay writing process takes three stages: prewriting, writing, and post-writing. Of course, this also applies when writing a nursing research paper or a case study, for that matter.

Note that the time, effort, and dedication required may differ depending on the essay's type, length, and scope.

For example, if you are assigned to write a 34-page essay analyzing a healthcare policy, most of your time will be consumed by research, planning, and writing. And if you are to write an essay on why you love nursing, you will most likely spend less time researching because you are writing it from your perspective. In a nutshell, the three stages entail:

Prewriting stage

  • Unpacking the question
  • Defining and refining the essay topic
  • Creating a title
  • Researching and gathering sources
  • Developing a thesis statement
  • Creating an outline

Writing Stage

  • Crafting the introduction, body, and conclusion
  • Fixing the in-text citations

Post writing stage

  • Editing, revising, proofreading, formatting, and polishing the essay.
  • Checking for plagiarism
  • Submitting the essay on time

Pre-Writing Phase for writing a nursing essay

Before you start writing a nursing essay, you have to ensure that you are clear about what is required of you

Unpack or Dissect the Question

The first step in the process of writing a nursing assignment is to know the question. You can do this by reading the prompt in the portal (Blackboard or Canvas), email from the lecturer, or PowerPoint slide presentations from class.

Understanding the question helps you structure your approach, limit the scope of your research, and write a nursing paper addressing the prompt. You should look for pointers, signal words, or terms such as evaluate, elaborate, explore, discuss, examine, illustrate, compare and contrast, cause and effect, make a case, etc.

When you get it right from the onset, you can achieve the goal of your nursing essay, which is to demonstrate that you have a better grasp of theoretical concepts and research processes and can write a professionally written paper.

Select a suitable topic

In most cases, you will be given a topic to write about because nursing essays focus on the same issues, unlike other subjects.

 The field is leveled in nursing classes. Nevertheless, due to the differences in communities, states, and nationalities that nursing students come from, you might be allowed to select a topic on your own.

After selecting a suitable topic that is neither too broad nor too narrow, submit it for approval by your professor or nurse educator. Ideally, choose a topic that aligns with the course concepts, theories, and readings. For instance, if discussing healthcare determinants in a specific community, focus on a website such as HealthyPeople to get the facts right.

Use the determinants mentioned in class when benchmarking nursing practice and community experiences.

The same applies to other areas such as anatomy, pathophysiology, epidemiology, care planning, assessment, leadership, education, practice, state laws, advocacy, policy analysis, etc.

When choosing the topic, go for the one you are interested in. Probably select a topic that aligns with your future ambitions/specialization.

Related Article: Nursing Research Topics for Essays and Nursing Papers.

Focus your Research and Select Sources

Once you have a topic, you must research widely from credible nursing sources.

Develop an understanding of the topic, understand what nursing scholars are saying about the topic, and select potential nursing references for your paper.

You can use scholarly nursing databases such as PubMed, Medline, Embase, BMC, the Cochrane Library, or the JBI EBP database.

Limit your search to articles and journals published within the last five years unless you have to reference a seminal work that has not been updated through the years.

Develop your thesis

A common question students ask is whether nursing essays have thesis statements. The response is that, like any other essay, you should include a thesis that announces your central aim or idea.

Your thesis statement should be assertive, specific, arguable, precise, and demonstrative. It should round up the gist of your entire paper.  The topic, supporting, and concluding sentences depends on the thesis statement.

Outline your essay

After creating a reasonable and focused thesis statement, map out a rough structure of your essay. Mapping out your essay helps you understand what falls where and stay focused when writing.

The essay outline should have your title, hook statement, thesis statement, and topic sentences. You will be filling this outline in the next step when writing the paper.

Writing stage for the Nursing Essay

In the writing phase, you must focus on filling your outline with content. Follow the following steps.

Write the introduction first

By now, you have identified the direction you want your essay to take, depending on the structured approach you have selected to answer the prompt/question. The introduction of your essay sets the tone, direction, and scope of your essay. since it is the invitation for your readers and the first contact point, it should grab their attention and then inform them what is to come. The introduction should be 15-20% of the word count. It should entail:

  • Hook this is the first sentence in your nursing essay, and it should raise the curiosity of your readers and pique their interests. You can use a statistical, epidemiological, or surprising fact related to the topic. In most cases, when writing essays on disease, epidemiology, and disease processes, shocking statistical/epidemiological facts can do the work. For instance, if you are writing an essay on mental health or illness, state the portion of the affected national, international, regional, or state population.
  • Background of the topic the background is where you give the context that helps your readers understand your arguments. Provide an overview of the topic, the importance of the nursing topic, and if possible, explain the complicated terms.
  • Thesis statement state your thesis statement as stated in the outline. In addition, the thesis should signal your position on the topic.
  • Signposting this is where you map out the content of your essay by stating the content in each section. It is specifically applicable to longer essays.

Develop the body paragraphs

After writing the introduction, you need to write the body paragraphs of your nursing essay. The body is approximately 75-80% of your essay's word count.

It is where you make arguments, give examples, and provide evidence to support the thesis. You should present, analyze, interpret, and organize the sources when supporting your claims and arguments.

In terms of writing the paragraphs, ensure that each body paragraph has an outstanding topic sentence, supporting sentences, and concluding sentences.

 The first sentence is the topic sentence, which announces what the paragraph is about.

The supporting sentences are where you present the facts, information, and examples from scholarly sources. Make sure to cite the information to avoid plagiarism.

Also, have transition words to help you write an essay with a good flow of ideas.

In nursing, you can use AMA, APA, ASA, or Harvard formatting; ensure you stick to the respective rules.

Write the conclusion

 The conclusion is the final paragraph of your nursing essay. You should write it to include 10-15% of the word count of your essay. A strong nursing essay conclusion restates the thesis, ties together the main arguments, has a call to action, or provides a sense of closure to the readers.

It should have an impactful or memorable sentence that lets the reader develop a strong connection and have a positive impression.

Your conclusion should not have any new facts, concepts, or examples. Instead, it should summarize your essay.

If you have a nursing essay that has a concept map, you can hire a concept map writer from our website and fulfil your assignment on time. 

Tips to help you write better Nursing Essays

As we began by saying, writing nursing essays follows the same steps as the essays you have written before. Apart from mastering the citations and structure and following the above steps to write a powerful essay, you can use these tips to ensure that your paper meets the requirements for the top grades in the rubric.

  • Make clarifications early enough . When assigned to write a nursing essay, start by reading the instructions and unpacking what is required of you. Then, if you have any questions, contact your nurse educator or professor early enough.
  • Allocate adequate time to complete the paper. To write a top-grade nursing essay, you must allocate enough time to research, draft, edit, and polish your essay. Therefore, completing and submitting the essay before the deadline is advisable.
  • Research widely . If you are going to write a winning essay, you need to support your ideas with facts and pieces of evidence. Extract this evidence and supporting facts from nursing databases. Use journals, nurse organization websites, and government websites to support your arguments.
  • Write first and edit later . When writing the paper, focus on writing first so that all your attention is focused on writing a paper with a good flow of ideas. Then, you can save everything else for later when proofreading and editing to turn the paper into a final draft.
  • Incorporate concepts and theories from class . Nursing studies entail the learning and applying of nursing concepts, theories, and practical experiences. Therefore, focus your paper on these theories based on class readings, discussion posts and responses, and experiences during practice.
  • Organize your paper well . As you write the essay, think creatively. Remember to present your facts logically and support your arguments using relevant in-text citations.
  • Check for plagiarism . Before submitting your paper, check if it has plagiarism. You can do so using free plagiarism checkers such as Plagscan or Grammarly.
  • Format your paper well . Ensure that you format and structure your paper according to the formatting and citation styles highlighted in your essay prompt. If you are unsure, refer to the citation machines or websites.
  • Hire someone to write . If you cannot write the essay, hire a good nursing essay writer to write a model nursing essay that can demonstrate how to approach your topic. Then, you can edit, use it as a guide, and write an essay that addresses the prompt.

Related: Writing a nursing diagnosis statement.

Writing a nursing essay helps you develop critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills. For instance, writing an essay that applies the clinical reasoning cycle or SBAR communication model will help you know how to apply such models in practice. Therefore, ensure that your nursing essay meets your nursing class's content, structural, theoretical constructs, quality improvement models, and facts.

Related Articles:

  • How to write a nurse student resume with no experience.
  • Nursing theories to consider for your essay.
  • Reasons to join the WGU RN to BSN Program.
  • Writing a perfect nursing diagnosis.
  • Steps for writing a perfect nursing care plan.

When in nursing school, essay writing is a critical aspect. You can hire a nursing essay writer from our website if you are strapped for time to complete your essays. Our experts can craft high-quality essays on any nursing essay topic of your choice. All papers are written in the appropriate format: APA, Harvard, AMA, or ASA. Check out our entire nursing class help package and make a deal today!

Struggling with

Related Articles

how to write a nursing case study essay

Public Health Research Topics and Ideas

how to write a nursing case study essay

Middle-Range Nursing Theories

how to write a nursing case study essay

Steps for Healthcare Promotion Plan Writing: A Complete Guide

NurseMyGrades is being relied upon by thousands of students worldwide to ace their nursing studies. We offer high quality sample papers that help students in their revision as well as helping them remain abreast of what is expected of them.

  • RMIT Australia
  • RMIT Europe
  • RMIT Vietnam
  • RMIT Global
  • RMIT Online
  • Alumni & Giving

RMIT University Library - Learning Lab

  • What will I do?
  • What will I need?
  • Who will help me?
  • About the institution
  • New to university?
  • Studying efficiently
  • Time management
  • Mind mapping
  • Note-taking
  • Reading skills
  • Argument analysis
  • Preparing for assessment
  • Critical thinking and argument analysis
  • Online learning skills
  • Starting my first assignment
  • Researching your assignment
  • What is referencing?
  • Understanding citations
  • When referencing isn't needed
  • Paraphrasing
  • Summarising
  • Synthesising
  • Integrating ideas with reporting words
  • Referencing with Easy Cite
  • Getting help with referencing
  • Acting with academic integrity
  • Artificial intelligence tools
  • Understanding your audience
  • Writing for coursework
  • Literature review
  • Academic style
  • Writing for the workplace
  • Spelling tips
  • Writing paragraphs
  • Writing sentences
  • Academic word lists
  • Annotated bibliographies
  • Artist statement
  • Case studies
  • Creating effective poster presentations
  • Essays, Reports, Reflective Writing
  • Law assessments
  • Oral presentations
  • Reflective writing
  • Art and design
  • Critical thinking
  • Maths and statistics
  • Sustainability
  • Educators' guide
  • Learning Lab content in context
  • Latest updates
  • Students Alumni & Giving Staff Library

Learning Lab

Getting started at uni, study skills, referencing.

  • When referencing isn't needed
  • Integrating ideas

Writing and assessments

  • Critical reading
  • Poster presentations
  • Postgraduate report writing

Subject areas

For educators.

  • Educators' guide
  • Case study report for nursing

Part 1: What is it and why?

This video introduces the concept of the case study and identifies how case studies differ to other written assignments.

The most important thing in writing up a case study report is that first, second, and thirdly: It is about the patient, not the condition nor the treatment. Students often put the emphasis on the condition or the treatment because the question usually focuses on this. While you need to explore these things, you still have to bring it back to the patient, and keep the patient central to the whole assignment.


We can understand if busy medical professionals start to see their patients in terms of a condition to be fixed, or a procedure to be performed. But ideally, we should remember that a patient is a person with a complex array of needs and preferences. This means that a simple textbook answer is not always best for them.


In your career, you will need to negotiate adjustments and anticipate problems particular to the patient. It does not make sense to discuss a condition in isolation from the individual. Each patient has their own unique kaleidoscope of history, personality type, fears, medical challenges, needs during recovery, so forth and so on. You need to see their condition or their treatment overall, as part of the whole person. Writing a case study teaches you to do that, if you don’t explore the condition or treatment as part of a holistic system, you case study becomes theoretical, it becomes another essay.


Let’s compare the case study to the essays you might have already written. The case study in nursing explores a particular patient’s situation, while your essays will more likely have focused on disease, a treatment, a concept, or a system. A case study is very grounded in the real and the now, even if the patient is a hypothetical invention. It still provides some fairly authentic experience with dealing with an individual patient.


Essays, on the other hand, tend to be literature-based. Of course, you need to do a lot of research and reading for your case study too, but the difference is for a case study you must always view and evaluate the information in the context of your patient. So in a case study, you need to show that you can find and apply information to you patient. For an essay you need to look at the information itself, pull it apart and evaluate it for its own sake.

So even if the question looks like an essay, don’t be distracted. There is still an expectation to relate this to the patient. It is possible to explore the content and theory in a generalised way throughout the assignment, but the beginning of the assignment (and the beginning of each paragraph, in fact) should foreground you're patient and their relationship to this theory.

Part 2: Research and writing

This video provides tips on how to research and structure paragraphs in order to keep a patient centred emphasis in the writing.

An essay, as opposed to a case study, usually has an question or a thesis which defines the boundaries of what you research, You aim to keep it within those parameters. and you delve as deeply as you can into the material. It loses focus if you include stuff outside of the topic. 


With a case study, however, your focus is the patient so you need to cast your net widely and generously at first to find something that is relevant to them. And then when you find something relevant, you need to research deeply. So, doing a good case study report involves a lot more reading than you might think. You’ll have to research both generally and deeply.

There can be a lot of research, and fairly unguided research involved in a case study. Don’t assume it’s like a reading comprehension exercise, the problems are not always clearly defined and the solutions have not necessarily been covered in lectures. Think of your case study as a mystery puzzle with a few clues scattered through it. 


In reality, patients do not arrive with instructions, so it’s up to the professional to notice that it is obvious and to think outside of the box. It is up to you to anticipate problems for the patient, it is up to you to follow through with the threads of any clues, and to see if they offer any valuable information, and these may only be hinted at indirectly. With years of nursing experience, the clues and danger signs get easier to spot, but it is very challenging for a beginner if you don’t know what to look for, and that is why the broad reading is important. 


So, every piece of information about your patient is valuable. When the information is given in the assignment, the facts are not random facts, they have usually been included for a reason, so use them and use them as much as you can. You may, on the other hand, have been told very little in the assignment and be expected to elicit the information yourself from the patient, through a blog, or a question-and-answer session. Asking for more details about their own condition just gives you more details about their condition, and unless you have some reasoning in mind for asking about that, more details per se is usually not that very helpful. 


Instead, ask about things that may affect the treatment or recovery; ask about things that may complicate matters. Smoking, relevant illnesses, lack of family support, strenuous lifestyles or jobs are all factors that may generate important decisions about how the patient is treated or cared for. The secret to keeping it about the patient is to keep them foremost into the discussion. You do this by making them the subject of each paragraph, and you do this by making them feature in the topic sentence: at the beginning and, if possible, a summary sentence at the end. 


In the middle of a paragraph, you have more flexibility to talk about the procedure or the condition in a more general way. But, at the end of the day, you need to remind us of how this is important for your patient. If you don’t, your writing becomes an essay rather than a case study. And if you feel like you’re being asked to research and to discuss material that is not directly relevant to your patient, you can make it relevant by at least explaining why it is not relevant. Remember, everything you write about should be in relation to your patient. 


So remember, it is all about the patient, keep everything relevant to the patient; keep the patient in mind throughout the research and the writing. Explore and discuss what the question requires, but theory for the sake of theory should be avoided. Your mission is to find the best solutions available for your patient, and develop the best understanding that you can of your patient. 


You have now complete the Case Study module. We hope you have enjoyed the content. For more study skill resources, please visit the RMIT Learning Lab.

  • Writing a case study

Still can't find what you need?

The RMIT University Library provides study support , one-on-one consultations and peer mentoring to RMIT students.

  • Facebook (opens in a new window)
  • Twitter (opens in a new window)
  • Instagram (opens in a new window)
  • Linkedin (opens in a new window)
  • YouTube (opens in a new window)
  • Weibo (opens in a new window)
  • Copyright © 2024 RMIT University |
  • Accessibility |
  • Learning Lab feedback |
  • Complaints |
  • ABN 49 781 030 034 |
  • CRICOS provider number: 00122A |
  • RTO Code: 3046 |
  • Open Universities Australia

Log in using your username and password

  • Search More Search for this keyword Advanced search
  • Latest content
  • Current issue
  • Write for Us
  • BMJ Journals

You are here

  • Volume 21, Issue 1
  • What is a case study?
  • Article Text
  • Article info
  • Citation Tools
  • Rapid Responses
  • Article metrics

Download PDF

  • Roberta Heale 1 ,
  • Alison Twycross 2
  • 1 School of Nursing , Laurentian University , Sudbury , Ontario , Canada
  • 2 School of Health and Social Care , London South Bank University , London , UK
  • Correspondence to Dr Roberta Heale, School of Nursing, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E2C6, Canada; rheale{at}laurentian.ca

https://doi.org/10.1136/eb-2017-102845

Statistics from Altmetric.com

Request permissions.

If you wish to reuse any or all of this article please use the link below which will take you to the Copyright Clearance Center’s RightsLink service. You will be able to get a quick price and instant permission to reuse the content in many different ways.

What is it?

Case study is a research methodology, typically seen in social and life sciences. There is no one definition of case study research. 1 However, very simply… ‘a case study can be defined as an intensive study about a person, a group of people or a unit, which is aimed to generalize over several units’. 1 A case study has also been described as an intensive, systematic investigation of a single individual, group, community or some other unit in which the researcher examines in-depth data relating to several variables. 2

Often there are several similar cases to consider such as educational or social service programmes that are delivered from a number of locations. Although similar, they are complex and have unique features. In these circumstances, the evaluation of several, similar cases will provide a better answer to a research question than if only one case is examined, hence the multiple-case study. Stake asserts that the cases are grouped and viewed as one entity, called the quintain . 6  ‘We study what is similar and different about the cases to understand the quintain better’. 6

The steps when using case study methodology are the same as for other types of research. 6 The first step is defining the single case or identifying a group of similar cases that can then be incorporated into a multiple-case study. A search to determine what is known about the case(s) is typically conducted. This may include a review of the literature, grey literature, media, reports and more, which serves to establish a basic understanding of the cases and informs the development of research questions. Data in case studies are often, but not exclusively, qualitative in nature. In multiple-case studies, analysis within cases and across cases is conducted. Themes arise from the analyses and assertions about the cases as a whole, or the quintain, emerge. 6

Benefits and limitations of case studies

If a researcher wants to study a specific phenomenon arising from a particular entity, then a single-case study is warranted and will allow for a in-depth understanding of the single phenomenon and, as discussed above, would involve collecting several different types of data. This is illustrated in example 1 below.

Using a multiple-case research study allows for a more in-depth understanding of the cases as a unit, through comparison of similarities and differences of the individual cases embedded within the quintain. Evidence arising from multiple-case studies is often stronger and more reliable than from single-case research. Multiple-case studies allow for more comprehensive exploration of research questions and theory development. 6

Despite the advantages of case studies, there are limitations. The sheer volume of data is difficult to organise and data analysis and integration strategies need to be carefully thought through. There is also sometimes a temptation to veer away from the research focus. 2 Reporting of findings from multiple-case research studies is also challenging at times, 1 particularly in relation to the word limits for some journal papers.

Examples of case studies

Example 1: nurses’ paediatric pain management practices.

One of the authors of this paper (AT) has used a case study approach to explore nurses’ paediatric pain management practices. This involved collecting several datasets:

Observational data to gain a picture about actual pain management practices.

Questionnaire data about nurses’ knowledge about paediatric pain management practices and how well they felt they managed pain in children.

Questionnaire data about how critical nurses perceived pain management tasks to be.

These datasets were analysed separately and then compared 7–9 and demonstrated that nurses’ level of theoretical did not impact on the quality of their pain management practices. 7 Nor did individual nurse’s perceptions of how critical a task was effect the likelihood of them carrying out this task in practice. 8 There was also a difference in self-reported and observed practices 9 ; actual (observed) practices did not confirm to best practice guidelines, whereas self-reported practices tended to.

Example 2: quality of care for complex patients at Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinics (NPLCs)

The other author of this paper (RH) has conducted a multiple-case study to determine the quality of care for patients with complex clinical presentations in NPLCs in Ontario, Canada. 10 Five NPLCs served as individual cases that, together, represented the quatrain. Three types of data were collected including:

Review of documentation related to the NPLC model (media, annual reports, research articles, grey literature and regulatory legislation).

Interviews with nurse practitioners (NPs) practising at the five NPLCs to determine their perceptions of the impact of the NPLC model on the quality of care provided to patients with multimorbidity.

Chart audits conducted at the five NPLCs to determine the extent to which evidence-based guidelines were followed for patients with diabetes and at least one other chronic condition.

The three sources of data collected from the five NPLCs were analysed and themes arose related to the quality of care for complex patients at NPLCs. The multiple-case study confirmed that nurse practitioners are the primary care providers at the NPLCs, and this positively impacts the quality of care for patients with multimorbidity. Healthcare policy, such as lack of an increase in salary for NPs for 10 years, has resulted in issues in recruitment and retention of NPs at NPLCs. This, along with insufficient resources in the communities where NPLCs are located and high patient vulnerability at NPLCs, have a negative impact on the quality of care. 10

These examples illustrate how collecting data about a single case or multiple cases helps us to better understand the phenomenon in question. Case study methodology serves to provide a framework for evaluation and analysis of complex issues. It shines a light on the holistic nature of nursing practice and offers a perspective that informs improved patient care.

  • Gustafsson J
  • Calanzaro M
  • Sandelowski M

Competing interests None declared.

Provenance and peer review Commissioned; internally peer reviewed.

Read the full text or download the PDF:

Learning Materials

  • Business Studies
  • Combined Science
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • English Literature
  • Environmental Science
  • Human Geography
  • Macroeconomics
  • Microeconomics
  • Nursing Case Study

Delve into the intricacies of a nursing case study, a critical component in nursing education and practice. This comprehensive guide will establish a robust understanding of the construction, relevance, and application of these integral studies. You'll explore various formats, ethical implications, and practical examples, ultimately honing your skills in creating effective nursing case studies. With an in-depth analysis and step-by-step guidance, this guide is crucial for aspiring or seasoned nursing professionals looking to enhance their case study proficiency.

Nursing Case Study

Create learning materials about Nursing Case Study with our free learning app!

  • Instand access to millions of learning materials
  • Flashcards, notes, mock-exams and more
  • Everything you need to ace your exams

Millions of flashcards designed to help you ace your studies

  • Cell Biology

What is a nursing case study?

What are the components of a nursing case study?

What is the importance of a nursing case study in clinical placement?

What is the nursing process for a case study?

What are the key components of a well-written nursing case study?

What is the purpose of writing a nursing case study?

What is the significance of nursing case study examples?

What are the major steps followed during a Nurse Practitioner case study analysis?

What essential points should be considered when analysing a delegation in nursing management case study?

What is an ethical dilemma in nursing?

What are the steps to follow when analysing an ethical scenario in nursing?

  • Clinical Placement
  • AACN Essentials
  • Active Listening in Nursing
  • Advanced Procedures
  • Barriers in Communication in Nursing
  • Basic Procedures
  • Bedside Manners
  • Blood Pressure Measurement
  • Brazil Healthcare system
  • Building Rapport
  • CPR Training
  • Canadian Medicare
  • Catheterisation
  • Clinical Assessment
  • Clinical Competence
  • Clinical Decision-Making
  • Clinical Experience
  • Clinical Exposure
  • Clinical Judgment
  • Clinical Learning Activities
  • Clinical Learning Environment
  • Clinical Learning Outcomes
  • Clinical Outcomes
  • Clinical Practice Guidelines
  • Clinical Reasoning in Nursing
  • Clinical Rotation
  • Clinical Scenarios
  • Clinical Simulation Scenarios
  • Clinical Skill Demonstration
  • Clinical Skills
  • Clinical Skills Assessment
  • Clinical Supervision
  • Clinical Training
  • Clustering Data
  • Collaborative Interventions
  • Collaborative Practice
  • Comfort Care
  • Communication Strategies in Healthcare
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Coordination of Care
  • Critical Reflection
  • Critical Thinking in Nursing
  • Cultural Responsiveness
  • Direct Patient Care
  • Disease Prevention
  • E-learning modules
  • Empathy in Nursing
  • Error Reporting
  • Ethical Principles in Nursing
  • Ethical Standards
  • France Healthcare System
  • Germany Healthcare System
  • Hands on Learning
  • Health Assessment
  • Health Care Delivery
  • Health Care Policy
  • Health Care Service
  • Health Care System Structure
  • Health Care Teamwork
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Teaching
  • Healthcare Service Delivery
  • Healthcare Systems
  • Healthcare Team
  • Hospital Protocol
  • Human Error
  • Hybrid Healthcare Systems
  • IV Insertion
  • Implicit Bias
  • India Healthcare System
  • Infection Control
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration
  • Interpersonal Communications
  • Japan Healthcare System
  • Learning Opportunities
  • Licensing Requirements
  • Malpractice
  • Medicare Australia
  • Medication Administration
  • Miscommunication in Nursing
  • Morals in Nursing
  • NHS Nursing
  • Negligence in Nursing
  • Non-therapeutic Communication
  • Nurse Licensure Compact
  • Nursing Care Assessment
  • Nursing Care Delivery
  • Nursing Care Plan Evaluation
  • Nursing Care Plans
  • Nursing Cues
  • Nursing Diagnoses
  • Nursing Documentation
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Inferences
  • Nursing Interventions
  • Nursing Judgment
  • Nursing Outcomes Classification
  • Nursing Procedures
  • Nursing Process
  • Patient Assessment
  • Patient Care
  • Patient Care Scenarios
  • Patient Care Skills
  • Patient Communication
  • Patient Confidentiality
  • Patient Education
  • Patient Feedback
  • Patient History Collection
  • Patient Hygiene
  • Patient Interaction
  • Patient Interaction Skills
  • Patient Management
  • Patient Needs
  • Patient Outcomes
  • Patient Privacy
  • Patient Safety
  • Patient Safety Measures
  • Patient-Centered Care
  • Patient-Centered Interventions
  • Private Healthcare
  • Professional Accountability
  • Professional Behavior
  • Professional Ethics
  • Professional Growth
  • Professional Standards
  • Public HealthCare
  • Pulse and Respiratory Rate
  • Recklessness
  • SMART Goals
  • Scope of Practice
  • Simulation in Nursing Education
  • Student Learning Objectives
  • Swedish Healthcare System
  • Teaching and Learning Methods in Nursing
  • Team Communication
  • Temperature Assessment
  • Therapeutic Communication
  • Therapeutic Interactions
  • UK Healthcare System
  • US Healthcare System
  • US Medical Insurance
  • Verbal Communication
  • Virtual Reality Training
  • Vital Signs
  • Wellness Education
  • Human Anatomy
  • Intensive Care Nursing
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Nursing Management
  • Nursing Theories
  • Types of Nursing

Understanding the Concept of a Nursing Case Study

Entering the field of nursing often requires more than simple rote learning. It demands an in-depth understanding of specific patient conditions, collaborative care planning, and the application of theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. This is where a nursing case study plays a key role.

A nursing case study is a comprehensive examination of a patient's status, which comprises the gathering, assessment, and interpretation of data through various medical examinations and tests. This process allows healthcare professionals to make better-informed decisions about a patient's care plan and overall health management.

What is a Nursing Case Study: An Introduction

A Nursing Case Study is an in-depth examination of a patient case, wherein the nurse documents detailed information about the patient—everything from their initial history, diagnosis, to treatment—whilst also noting observations and reflecting on their nursing care.

A nursing case study typically includes sections for patient history, diagnosis, nursing assessment, treatment, and results. You will:

  • Start by documenting a detailed patient history including previous medical conditions and lifestyle.
  • Then, you'll progress to the diagnosis of the patient's condition.
  • Next, perform a nursing assessment to identify potential health risks or complications.
  • Formulate a treatment plan based on the assessment.
  • And finally, evaluate the results of the treatment plan and adjust as necessary.

These comprehensive evaluations are critical in the field of nursing as they not only allow for appropriate patient care but also help guide future medical recommendations.

For example, consider a patient diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who complains of unexpected weight loss. A comprehensive nursing case study would involve recording the patient's current symptoms, medical history, conducting a nursing assessment to identify potential complications, and formulating a treatment plan. The results of this treatment would be regularly evaluated and adjusted to optimise the patient's health.

Importance and Relevance of a Nursing Case Study in Clinical Placement

A nursing case study plays an indispensable role in clinical placement . As you navigate your clinical experience :/p>

  • You can use case studies as a reference tool in diagnosing, planning, implementing and evaluating patient care .
  • Through case studies, you can also enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Clinical placement refers to the practice-based learning experience that allows nursing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world clinic or hospital setting.

Such hands-on experience is essential to developing a solid understanding and mastery in nursing. A thorough nursing case study stands as a practical resource, providing valuable insights into complex patient conditions and providing a framework for delivering effective patient care. Furthermore, it also enables better comprehension of theoretical practice, thus bridging the gap between theory and application in nursing.

Exploring the Format of a Case Study in Nursing

It is crucial to understand the layout of a nursing case study. Having a solid grasp of the format will enable you to document all essential pieces of information about your patient care efficiently and thoroughly. Furthermore, clear structuring strongly supports effective communication within the healthcare team .

Remember, just like other academic papers, a nursing case study generally follows a logical flow that reflects the nursing process . This process includes five steps: Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation and Evaluation; often abbreviated as ADPIE.

How to Write a Nursing Case Study: Step by Step Guide

When writing a nursing case study, it's vital to maintain a clear, structured and detail-oriented approach. Here, you will learn a standard step-by-step guide to creating your case study.

  • Review the Patient History : Start by gathering all relevant details about the patient's medical history. Include specifics like past medical conditions, medication use, lifestyle factors and family history of diseases.
  • Document Recent Health Assessments : Mention any recent diagnostic tests and their results, physical examination findings, and present complaints or conditions if any.
  • Analyze Clinical Data : Analyze the data from the assessments and tests to identify any pertinent patterns or connections.
  • Formulate Nursing Diagnoses : Based on your analysis, formulate nursing diagnoses . A nursing diagnosis can be described as a clinical judgement concerning a human response to health conditions.
  • Develop a Comprehensive Care Plan : After diagnosis, establish a comprehensive care plan detailing the intended therapeutic interventions and expected outcomes. Remember, it's crucial to form SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) outcomes.
  • Evaluate Progress : Lastly, evaluate the patient's progress towards the desired outcome and note any necessary changes to the care plan.

Please, keep in mind that the case study should follow a narrative approach, ensuring the information flows logically while maintaining patient confidentiality at all times.

An example could be a nursing case study for a patient with pneumonia . First, the patient's history is gathered, noting previous respiratory issues or any risk factors like smoking or occupational exposure. Next, the current clinical data would be documented, such as the results of a chest X-ray showing an infection in the lungs , together with vital signs and physical examination results. The data is then analyzed to arrive at a nursing diagnosis of impaired gas exchange related to alveolar consolidation, as evidenced by abnormal breath sounds and decreased oxygen saturation levels. The care plan would include interventions such as administering prescribed medications, oxygen therapy , and promoting good lung hygiene, with the expected outcome of improved respiratory function. Regular progress evaluations would be made, adjusting the plan as required.

Key Components of a Well-Written Nursing Case Study

The resultant quality of a case study depends on whether all key components are properly addressed. Here are some pivotal sections that should be present:

  • Introduction : This provides a brief overview of the patient's demographic information and reason for admission.
  • Patient History : The patient’s medical, surgical, and family history, including lifestyle factors.
  • Physical Examination : Findings from the nurse's initial physical assessment of the patient, noting any abnormalities.
  • Nursing Assessment : Identification of health issues or potential complications based on nursing theory.
  • Nursing Diagnosis : Clinical judgement concerning a human response to health conditions.
  • Nursing Interventions and Rationale : Explanation of the actions taken by the nurse to reach the planned outcomes, with a clear rationale behind each intervention.
  • Expected Results and Actual Outcomes : Anticipation of results after interventions and comparison with actual outcomes. Adjustments to interventions may be made based on this comparison.

By giving due importance to each of these components, you ensure that the case study is comprehensive, accurate, and informative. This process aids in the ongoing optimisation of patient care, and shows the continual evidence-based practice in nursing.

Diving into Nursing Case Study Examples

An understanding of nursing case studies is significantly enhanced with the examination of practical examples. Analysis of these examples provides a real-life context to theories and practices, reinforcing their relevance and applicability. It is a great tool for learning by experience and expanding your knowledge in the field.

Reviewing nursing case study examples can spotlight the importance of thorough data collection, patient history compilation, diagnosis determination, and subsequent treatment provisioning. It permits you to appreciate the diversity of patient conditions, honing your skills in managing complex health situations effectively.

Nurse Practitioner Case Studies: Comprehensive Analysis

Nurse Practitioner case studies offer rich insights into the critical role nurse practitioners play within healthcare teams, particularly in primary care settings.

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse with additional education and training in a particular area like family practice or paediatrics allowing them to examine, diagnose, and treat patients.

By looking into nurse practitioner case studies, you can expand your understanding of the advanced critical thinking, decision-making, and leadership skills exercised by NPs in diverse health scenarios. Here are the major steps that are typically followed during case analysis:

  • First Step - Understanding the Patient's Details : The big picture of the patient's background, including their demographics, social, medical and personal history.
  • Second Step - Identification of the Care Gaps : Identifying the issues in the existing care provision and areas of improvement for the Nurse Practitioner.
  • Third Step - Formulation of a Healthcare Plan : The NP devises a robust patient-specific care plan detailing the required interventions.
  • Fourth Step - Execution and Evaluation of the Plan : The plan is implemented, and the results are closely monitored for necessary changes.

Consider a Nurse Practitioner case study involving a 70-year-old female with a history of hypertension . The patient complaints of frequent headaches and tiredness. The NP begins by understanding the patient's overall health background, and then identifies the gaps in care—possibly inadequate control of hypertension. The NP formulates a plan that includes adjustment of antihypertensive drugs, lifestyle changes, and regular blood pressure monitoring . The execution of this plan is followed by a careful analysis of the patient's improvement in symptoms and hypertension control.

Delegation of Nursing Management Case Study: An Overview

Evaluating delegation in nursing management through case studies is an excellent way to understand its significance in nursing practice and learn the best principles for its application.

Delegation in nursing management refers to the process of assigning tasks to subordinates or team members in a way that maximises the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.

Delegation is a crucial skill for every nurse, especially for those in leadership roles. It not only ensures smoother workflow but also empowers less experienced nurses, imparting skill development opportunities. The following points are important when analysing a delegation case study:

  • Assessing the Situation : First, understand the precise patient care scenario and the workforce available.
  • Identifying the Skills Required : After assessing the situation, identify the kind of skills needed for the delegated tasks.
  • Assigning the Task : Delegate the task to the most competent and available person, considering their individual competencies and workload.
  • Monitoring and Feedback : After delegation, it's crucial to supervise the task completion and provide constructive feedback to enhance performance in the future.

For instance, consider a case study highlighting delegation in a busy hospital setting. The nurse manager has to manage the care of 30 patients with only five nurses on duty. After assessing the situation and the individual abilities of the nurses, she assigns roles like medication administration , wound care , and patient education optimally. She then monitors the work and offers feedback after the shift, leading to efficient patient care despite the heavy workload.

Learning from these case studies equips you with efficient strategies for nursing management and ensures streamlined patient care. This knowledge acquisition is essential in modern healthcare settings to establish a patient-centred, coordinated approach.

Case Studies in Nursing Ethics

Examining case studies in nursing ethics is an invaluable way to explore the complex nature of ethical dilemmas in clinical settings. It allows you to conceptualise ethical concepts applied to patient care, while providing robust resources for learning and growth.

These case studies essentially offer an exploration into the intersection of healthcare, morality, philosophy, and social justice, which is represented in daily nursing practice.

Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing: Case Study Illustrations

An 'ethical dilemma' refers to situations where moral obligations conflict or where moral reasoning is not clear-cut. Nurses frequently encounter such dilemmas in their practice, making it crucial to understand how to approach these complex situations.

Ethical dilemma in nursing is a scenario where a decision must be made between two morally correct courses of action, but they are conflicting.

In nursing, the prime focus is always to provide the best possible care for a patient. However, ethical dilemmas arise when the right course of action is unclear, or when different beliefs and values clash. These situations can be stressful and deciding on the course of action can be challenging. Reviewing case study illustrations of ethical dilemmas can be a powerful teaching tool that facilitates a deeper understanding of these challenges.

Here are the most common ethical dilemmas that nurses face:

  • Disclosure : How much information about the patient's health should be shared and with whom?
  • Quality of Life : When a patient is suffering, what measures should be taken to maintain quality of life versus prolonging life itself?
  • Professional Boundaries : How does a nurse maintain the right balance between being professional yet compassionate and empathetic?
  • Cultural Differences : Treatment should be offered based on the patient's cultural beliefs, but what happens when these are in conflict with standard healthcare practices?
  • End of Life Decisions : Addressing issues like euthanasia, Do Not Resuscitate orders and withdrawal or withholding of treatment.

It’s worth remembering that these issues often put a nurse’s professional duty against their personal beliefs, which further increases the complexity of managing them effectively.

For instance, consider a scenario where a patient’s religious beliefs prohibit blood transfusions, but they require one to survive. In carrying out the patient's wishes, the health provider might have to compromise the patient's wellbeing. Conversely, if the nurse ignores the patient's wishes to save their life, it can be considered a disregard for the patient's autonomy and beliefs. Thus, navigating this delicate balance may present an ethical dilemma.

Learning from Ethical Scenarios in Nursing Case Studies

Each ethical scenario in nursing case studies is a profound learning opportunity. Through exploring these intense and complex scenarios, you evolve as a nurse, honing your critical thinking, decision-making and reflection skills.

When analysing an ethical scenario, it's best to follow these steps:

  • Identify the Dilemma : First, identify the ethical issue at hand and why it creates a dilemma.
  • Understand the Context : Ascertain the involved parties, their beliefs or values, and how they relate to the situation.
  • Evaluate the Options : Review the possible actions you could take, bearing in mind ethical guidelines and professional duties.
  • Seek Advice : Consult with colleagues, mentors or your nursing governing body if in doubt. Asking for perspectives helps create a broader view of options.
  • Make an Informed Decision : Based on all the information and advice, make a decision. Always keep the patient's best interest in focus.

Consider a case study where a patient refuses necessary treatment due to their religious beliefs. You first identify the ethical dilemma: respecting the patient's autonomous decision versus ensuring their wellbeing. The context includes the patient's health condition and their deeply-held religious belief. Possible options would be to respect the patient's choice, seek legal advice, discuss alternatives, or try to convince the patient or their family. Seeking advice from senior colleagues or the nurse manager may offer valuable insights into managing such situations. Finally, the decision should be taken considering all perspectives while maintaining the prime focus on the patient's wellbeing and rights.

With each ethical scenario analysed, you gain a deeper understanding of the ethical dimensions of nursing. This understanding fortifies your ability to provide effective, ethical patient care and to handle challenging situations in your nursing journey.

Tips and Techniques for an Effective Nursing Case Study

Nursing case studies are an integral part of nursing education and practice. They provide an in-depth insight into patient care, from diagnosis to treatment, through a practical approach. Understanding how to write them effectively is a vital skill for both nursing students and practicing nurses.

Improving Your Writing Skills for Nursing Case Studies

Improving your writing skills specifically for nursing case studies primarily means honing your ability to accurately document and articulate patient interactions, clinical symptoms, nursing interventions , and treatment results. It’s about refining your observational, analytic, and reporting skills.

Here's a list of techniques you can follow to enhance your case study writing skills :

  • Understand the Format : Familiarise yourself with the structure and formatting of nursing case studies. Standard sections include patient history, diagnosis, nursing assessments, treatment, and evaluation.
  • Be Clear and Precise : Use clear, precise language and mention facts accurately. Avoid unneeded jargon or long sentences.
  • Consistent Clinical Terminology : Utilise the approved clinical language, acronyms, and terminology consistently for clarity and professionalism.
  • Detail-Oriented Observation : Be observant about the smallest details related to a patient's symptoms, behaviours, reactions to interventions, and overall progress. Every tiny detail could be significant.
  • Reflective Thinking : Develop your reflective thinking skills. Reflect on your nursing interventions: what has worked, what hasn't, and potential improvements.

Reflective thinking in nursing is a process where nurses analyse their clinical experiences to learn and improve their practices. It aids in transforming practical experiences into meaningful knowledge.

Suppose you are documenting a case study about a patient with diabetes suffering from recurring cases of hypoglycaemia. You'll need to provide a comprehensive patient history, precise details about their symptoms, and a clear description of your nursing interventions to prevent these episodes. Be sure to use consistent terminology and observe all related factors, like the patient's diet or emotional state, which could impact their sugar levels. The report should include regular evaluations of the patient's condition, and your reflections on the efficacy of your implemented care plan.

Do's and Don'ts in Writing a Nursing Case Study

To ensure you create compelling, informative, and accurate nursing case studies, here are some indispensable do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

Adhere to the structure: Patient History, Diagnosis, Nursing Assessments, Interventions, Evaluation. Don't skip any part of the structure, as each section provides essential aspects of the case study.
Highlight relevant patient details and symptoms that led to the diagnosis. Don't include irrelevant information that doesn't contribute towards understanding the case.
Use consistent and approved clinical language and terms. Don't use slang, abbreviations or acronyms that are not generally accepted in clinical practice.
Write reflectively about the interventions and outcomes. Don't provide a mere chronology without any critical thinking or reflection.
Ensure your case study is factual, precise, and comprehensive. Don't use guesswork, assumptions or exaggerations. Stick to the facts.

Reflective writing in nursing case studies is a process where nurses consider their experiences, actions, feelings, and responses and analyse their impacts on patient outcomes . It includes assessing what was done well, what could be improved, and steps for future development.

If you have handled an incident of rapid patient deterioration in a clinical setting, instead of merely describing the event chronologically in the case study, engage in reflective writing. Discuss the nursing assessments undertaken, the intuitions you had, the quick decisions you made, and the outcomes you achieved. Reflect on your emotions, your learning, and the improvements you would implement in similar future scenarios.

Following these tips will, without a doubt, help you improve the quality of your nursing case studies, either for academic or professional purposes. Understanding the importance of each step, from precise patient details to reflective evaluations, is key to writing an effective nursing case study.

Nursing Case Study - Key takeaways

  • A Nursing Case Study involves gathering patient history, analyzing clinical data, formulating nursing diagnoses, developing a comprehensive care plan, and evaluating progress.
  • Nursing Case Study examples illuminate the process and importance of thorough data collection, patient history compilation, diagnosis determination, and subsequent treatment.
  • The delegation of nursing management Case Study explores the efficient assignment of tasks within a nursing team, maximizing efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.
  • Case studies in nursing ethics provide insight into ethical dilemmas in clinical settings and help to conceptualize ethical concepts applied to patient care.
  • The format of a nursing case study typically includes an introduction, patient history, physical/nursing assessment, nursing diagnosis, nursing interventions and rationale, and expected/actual outcomes.

Flashcards in Nursing Case Study 30

A nursing case study is an in-depth examination of a patient's case, documenting detailed information about the patient's history, diagnosis, treatment, and reflecting on their nursing care.

A nursing case study includes patient history, diagnosis, nursing assessment, treatment formulation, and results evaluation.

A nursing case study provides valuable insights into patient conditions, serves as a practical resource, enhances critical thinking, and bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application in patient care.

The nursing process for a case study includes five steps: Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation, often abbreviated as ADPIE.

The key components are Introduction, Patient History, Physical Examination, Nursing Assessment, Nursing Diagnosis, Nursing Interventions and Rationale, and Expected Results and Actual Outcomes.

A nursing case study is written to document all essential information about patient care efficiently and thoroughly. This clear structuring supports effective communication within the healthcare team.

Nursing Case Study

Learn with 30 Nursing Case Study flashcards in the free StudySmarter app

We have 14,000 flashcards about Dynamic Landscapes.

Already have an account? Log in

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Case Study

Test your knowledge with multiple choice flashcards.

Nursing Case Study

Join the StudySmarter App and learn efficiently with millions of flashcards and more!

Keep learning, you are doing great.

Discover learning materials with the free StudySmarter app

1

About StudySmarter

StudySmarter is a globally recognized educational technology company, offering a holistic learning platform designed for students of all ages and educational levels. Our platform provides learning support for a wide range of subjects, including STEM, Social Sciences, and Languages and also helps students to successfully master various tests and exams worldwide, such as GCSE, A Level, SAT, ACT, Abitur, and more. We offer an extensive library of learning materials, including interactive flashcards, comprehensive textbook solutions, and detailed explanations. The cutting-edge technology and tools we provide help students create their own learning materials. StudySmarter’s content is not only expert-verified but also regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance.

Nursing Case Study

StudySmarter Editorial Team

Team Nursing Teachers

  • 18 minutes reading time
  • Checked by StudySmarter Editorial Team

Study anywhere. Anytime.Across all devices.

Create a free account to save this explanation..

Save explanations to your personalised space and access them anytime, anywhere!

By signing up, you agree to the Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy of StudySmarter.

Sign up to highlight and take notes. It’s 100% free.

Join over 22 million students in learning with our StudySmarter App

The first learning app that truly has everything you need to ace your exams in one place

  • Flashcards & Quizzes
  • AI Study Assistant
  • Study Planner
  • Smart Note-Taking

Join over 22 million students in learning with our StudySmarter App

Get unlimited access with a free StudySmarter account.

  • Instant access to millions of learning materials.
  • Flashcards, notes, mock-exams, AI tools and more.
  • Everything you need to ace your exams.

Second Popup Banner

How to Write a Nursing Case Study [Examples, Format, & Tips]

✒️ case study topics for nursing students.

  • 🩺️ The Basics
  • 💉 Nursing Case Study: Writing Rules

📑 Nursing Case Study Format

📝 nursing case study examples.

  • ⏱️ Tips on Quick Writing

🔗 References

A nursing case study is an in-depth analysis of the health situation of an individual patient.

A nursing case study is an in-depth analysis of the health situation of an individual patient.

The analysis is based on:

  • medical history,
  • other relevant criteria.

In most cases, you will be asked to diagnose to suggest the first aid measures. Alternatively, nurses can be asked to describe a patient in their practice and analyze the correctness of their actions. The purpose is to recreate a realistic hospital setting in the classroom and make students reflect on the treatment process from diagnosis to treatment.

  • Anaphylactic shock in a teenager with peanut allergy.
  • Non-compliant patient with diabetes: ways to improve adherence.
  • Telehealth intervention for managing chronic disease.
  • Communication strategies to address vaccine hesitancy in a rural community.
  • Postpartum hemorrhage in a new mother: risk factors and interventions.
  • Ways to improve recognition of dehydration in aging adults.
  • The effective ways of maintaining work-life balance for nurses.
  • Cultural competency in providing care to migrants and refugees.
  • Why should every patient’s medical history remain confidential?
  • The use of massage therapy in relieving pain.
  • The challenges facing medicine in 2024.
  • How does modern technology impact nursing?
  • The significance of regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider.
  • What are the primary treatments for postpartum depression?
  • The use of steroids in cancer treatment.

🩺️ Nursing Case Study: What Is It About?

As a nursing student, you should understand that no two patients are the same. Each has a unique clinical record and condition. And although most nursing case study tasks will ask you to suggest a diagnosis or treatment, your focus should rest on the patient.

Busy nurses can sometimes see their patients in the framework of an illness to be treated or a procedure to be fulfilled. But you should do your best to remember that each patient is a living person with a complex set of needs, emotions, and preferences. A ready-made textbook answer is rarely the best solution for them. Moreover, it rarely helps to analyze a condition in isolation from the patient.

In a nursing case study, your task is to analyze a disorder or illness as a part of a specific medical situation. If you don’t do that, your case study becomes an essay (theoretical and generalized). It is the difference between the two assignment types.

Once again:

A case study in nursing emphasizes the particular patient’s condition. Meanwhile, a nursing essay will explore the disease, prevention methods, treatment, or possible consequences of the disease.

Even if the case is hypothetical, it should focus on the suggested reality. On the other hand, essays are usually literature-based. You are expected to do some reading for a case study too, but you should research and present the information within the context of the patient. In simple terms, a case study uses information in the actual application, and an essay uses it for the sake of generalized suggestions.

💉 How to Write a Nursing Case Study: 3 Key Rules

  • Do the fieldwork. Before setting your hands to writing, you should collect all of the available materials: clinical notes, results of medical tests, x-rays, sickness records, etc. Use this information to draw a clear picture of the story. It is always helpful to ask yourself, “What is interesting or unusual about this patient’s condition?” In the course of writing, recall your answer from time to time not to get lost in words. It will help you to convey a definite and appropriate message.

The picture contains the 3 key rules of nursing case study writing.

  • Stick to the facts. A nursing case study should be an accurate description of the actual situation. Restrain from speculating about the inherent mechanisms of the illness or the general treatment methodology. In fact, students are rarely prepared enough to discuss pathology and physiology. Leave this to reputable experts. The best result you can provide in a case study is an honest account of clinical events.
  • Concentrate on the patients and their progress. Remember that a nursing case study is a story of a patient’s progress and not a narrative about their nurse. No matter how efficiently the medical specialist acted, it would be incorrect to add any praiseful remarks. The optimal way is to tell the story in its logical and time order and outline the result of treatment. In this case, the outcome will speak for itself.

Introduction

It is where you should tell the reader why this case is interesting . Place your study in a social or historical context. If, during your preliminary research, you found some similar cases, describe them briefly. If you had a hard time diagnosing the patient or your proposed treatment is complicated, mention it here. Don’t forget to cite the references to each of them!

The introduction should not exceed several paragraphs. The purpose is to explain why the reader will benefit from reading about the case.

The picture contains a list of structural components of a nursing case study,

Case Presentation

  • Why did the patient seek medical help? (Describe the symptoms.)
  • What is known about the patient? (Mention only the information that influenced your diagnosis. Otherwise, explain why some information is irrelevant to the diagnosis.)
  • Stick to the narrative form. (Make it a story!)
  • What are the variants for diagnosis? (Make a shortlist of possible disorders that fall under the patient’s symptoms. But make it specific: not just “pneumonia” but “bilateral pneumonia,” for example. Besides, this point is optional.)
  • What were the results of your clinical examination? (If you saw the patient in person.)
  • Explain the results of lab tests. (The words “positive” or “negative” are not always clear.)

Actions and Their Results

This section describes the care that has been provided and/or is planned. You can answer the following questions in narrative form . If some information is missing, skip the point:

  • What preliminary actions have been taken? (Be specific: not just “wound care,” but “wound cleaning and dressing.”)
  • How long has the patient been under care?
  • Has the previous treatment given any visible result?
  • Why was it suspended or finished?
  • Why did the patient withdraw from treatment (if applicable)?
  • How could you improve the patient’s condition if the result was negative?
  • If the disease is incurable (like in the case of diabetes), which activities would stabilize the patient’s condition?
  • If possible, include the patient’s reports of their own physical and mental health.

In this section, you should identify your questions about the case. It is impossible to answer all of them in one case study. Likewise, it is unreal to suggest all the relevant hypotheses explaining the patient’s condition. Your purpose is to show your critical thinking and observation skills. Finalize your conclusion by summarizing the lessons you learned from the nursing case study.

Whenever you directly or indirectly cite other sources or use data from them, add these books and documents to the references list. Follow the citation style assigned by your professor. Besides, 15 items are already too much. Try to make a list of up to 10. Using textbooks as references can be viewed as bad manners.

Include all the tables, photographs, x-rays, figures, and the journal of medication usage in this section. Unless required otherwise in the assignment, start each item from a new page, naming them “Appendix A,” “Appendix B…”.

Below you will find case study samples for various topics. Using them as a reference will improve your writing. If you need more ideas, you are welcome to use our free title-generating tool .

  • Case study: healing and autonomy.
  • Sara’s case study: maternal and child nursing.
  • COPD medical diagnostics: case study.
  • Care standards in healthcare institutions: case study.
  • Acute bacterial prostatitis: case study analysis.
  • Alzheimer disease: the patient case study.
  • The treatment of foot ulcers in diabetic patients: case study.
  • Hypertension: C.D’s case study.
  • Myocardial infarction: cardiovascular case study.
  • Major depressive disorder case.
  • Case study of the patient with metabolic syndrome .
  • Pulmonary analysis case study .
  • Older adults isolation: Case study .
  • The holistic care: Case study .
  • Obesity in the Elderly: The Case Study.
  • Medical ethics: Case study .
  • Patient diagnoses and treatment: Case study .
  • Obesity case study: Mr. C .
  • Nurse Joserine: Case study problems .
  • Chronic stable angina: Case study .
  • Fetal abnormality: Case study .
  • Researching SOAP: Case study .
  • Case study for a patient with hormonal disorders .
  • “Walking the Tightrope”: A case study analysis .
  • ARNP approach: Case study analysis .
  • Case study on biomedical ethics in the Christian narrative .
  • Thermal injury: Case study .
  • Ethical dilemma in nursing: Case study .
  • Asthma: A case study of the patient .
  • Asthma discharge plan: Mini case study .
  • Case study: An ethics of euthanasia .
  • Case study: Head-to-toe assessment steps .
  • Pain management strategies: Case study .
  • Case study: Inflammatory bowel disease .
  • Sleep deprivation and insomnia: The case study .
  • The case study of a heart failure .
  • Porphyria cutanea tarda: Disease case study .
  • Case study: Hardy Hospital case summary .
  • Obesity and its complications: Case study .
  • Angina disease case study .
  • Nursing ethics case study .
  • Case study of a patient: Assessment and treatment plan .
  • Cecile case study: Mrs. J .
  • Nursing power in the emergency department: Case study .
  • Heart failure case study: Mrs. J .
  • Application of ethics in nursing: Case study .
  • Sudden visual impairment: Case study .
  • Epidemiology case study: Outbreak at Watersedge — Public health discovery game .
  • Wellness of senior citizens: Case study .
  • Healthcare organization evaluation: Case study of Banner Health .

⏱️ Bonus: Tips on Writing a Case Study in Record Time

Need to prepare a case study on nursing or in another field? Below you’ll find a collection fo tips that will help you do it as quickly as possible!

3 Shortcuts for a Quick Start

If you’re about to start writing a case study, you should check yourself if you’re not doing any of the following:

  • spending too much time on selecting a topic;
  • reading too much before selecting a topic;
  • making conclusions too early – creating bias.

Instead of killing time doing the three useless things discussed above, consider these:

  • Choose approach. Note that there are 2 major approaches to case studies: the analytical approach (investigating possible reasons without making any conclusions) and problem-oriented approach (focusing on a particular problem and investigating it).
  • Skim some sources (DON’T READ THEM). Select several sources. Simply skim abstracts and conclusions.
  • Start making notes early. Simply reading is ineffective unless you’re lucky to have a phenomenal memory. Always make notes of any useful arguments.

4 Shortcuts Not to Get Stuck in the Middle

Even if you kick started your case study, it’s too early to celebrate it. Consider the following traps in the middle of the project:

  • Watch the structure. The classic logical structure is your formula of success. It will help you move from one point to another without the unnecessary procrastination:
  • Respect the logic. Make your case study flow – make logical transitions between the different parts and make it consistent. Avoid changing your position throughout the paper.
  • Be detail-oriented. Any trifle deserves attention when you write a case study.
  • Avoid bias. Be sure that all your opinions are based on the specific arguments form the case study. Avoid pouring your biased views into the project.

3 Shortcuts for a Happy Ending

  • Offer a realistic solution. College case study is a rehearsal of real-life situations. Take the responsibility for your suggestions.
  • Keep your conclusion short. Avoid repeating the details and don’t include any new information.
  • Consider creating a Power Point. If your task is not only writing a case study, but also presenting it – why not create PowerPoint slides to help you?

As the last step on your way to a perfect nursing case study, prepare the title page. Its format usually depends on the professor’s requirements. But if you know the citation style, our Title Page Maker is a perfect tool to apply the right formatting and accelerate the process. And if you have any know-how on how to write a medical case study, you are very welcome to share it with other students in the comments below.

❓ Nursing Case Study: FAQ

What is a case study in nursing.

A nursing case study explores the condition of a patient. It is based on previous clinical records, lab reports, and other medical and personal information. A case study focuses on the patient and describes the treatment that was (or should be) applied and its (expected) outcome.

How to Write a Nursing Case Study?

  • Collect the bulk of data available about the patient.
  • Read literature about the diagnosed condition.
  • Focus on the individual patient and their symptoms.
  • Describe the situation and outline its development in time.
  • Analyze the actions of the medical personnel that have been done.
  • Plan further treatment of the patient.

Why Are Case Studies Good for Nursing Students?

Nursing case studies offer you a priceless opportunity to gain experience of different patient conditions and cure methods without visiting the clinic. You can think about whether the proposed treatment was appropriate or wrong and suggest a better solution. And the best thing, your teacher will indicate your mistakes (and no patient will be hurt in the process).

Why Are Case Studies Important in Nursing?

  • You learn to distinguish the relevant data and analyze it.
  • You learn to ask the right questions.
  • You learn to evaluate the severity of symptoms.
  • You learn to make better diagnoses.
  • You train your critical thinking in terms of treatment methods
  • Case studies are in-class simulators of authentic atmosphere in a clinical ward.
  • What is a case study? | Evidence-Based Nursing
  • Case Studies – Johns Hopkins Medicine
  • Case Study Research Design in Nursing
  • Case study report for Nursing | Learning Lab – RMIT University
  • Case Study or Nursing Care Study? – jstor

Research Paper Analysis: How to Analyze a Research Article + Example

Film analysis: example, format, and outline + topics & prompts.

UK Essay Writers Logo

A Guide on How To Write a Nursing Case Study Assignment

how to write a nursing case study essay

Many students who don’t have nursing as a major subject mistakenly believe nursing students do not complete research assignments. After all, they spend most of their time in biology and chemistry labs, conducting field experiments. However, a patient’s nursing case study is a tough assignment and will likely freak you out. Many students have claimed they get overwhelmed by writing a nursing case study with patient scenarios.

What is a Nursing Case Study?

A nursing case study assignment brings up a specific patient’s health condition to test a nursing student’s skills, aptitude, and knowledge in their research area. The case study nursing students work on are most likely the practicum or procedures they will be encountering in their daily routine. These projects are assigned to student nurses as a part of their study course. The research paper helps students integrate the theoretical learning from lectures into a real world scenario.

A well-written research paper for a nursing program requires extensive reading, critical thinking, proper application, and consideration of recent scholarly literature.

Nursing Case Study Structure

Have a look at the patient’s condition and the details mentioned by your instructor before starting the case study. Once you have sufficient know-how of the case, you can write about it in the following steps:

Abstract of the Report

An abstract can be written in a narrative or organised form. A description is a condensed version of an entire document summarising everything into a coherent, flowing plot but lacks headers. Structured abstracts include subheadings to aid with online searches. A structured abstract is divided into categories of a nursing case study, including the introduction, case presentation, management and outcome, and conclusion.

How to Write an Introduction for a Case Study

Your report’s intro should briefly present the patient, covering medical history, current medicine and diagnosis, prospective therapies, and suggestions.

You may always write the introduction last to ensure you’ve covered everything in your research work. The first paragraph aims to display you can decipher the patient’s message. It also enhances your arguments on care planning later in the paper.

• Practice Pathophysiology

You can discuss how the patient illness have occurred after studying the patient’s raw data. For example, if it is sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, use the necessary facts to explain how it may have happened. A patient working in an unsanitary environment is one example. If a patient has the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and has been a long-time smoker, explain how smoking causes COPD. Focus on the patient’s aetiology and risk factors as you discuss pathophysiology. Use nursing literature released within the previous five years to back up your writing.

• Nursing Care Plan

With the diagnosis done and the source of the patient’s suffering understood, it is now time to plan the patient’s care. With this following written guide on nursing care plans, you can write a care plan yourself in no time. However, suppose you are not sure how to write your case study. In that case, for quality work, you can always ask for assignment help UK from expert and professional writers who are always available to provide relief to struggling students.

The nurse care plan details the topmost complaints or the critical problems that a patient has, comprising at least three top-priority issues. You can help define the reasons for these problems while drawing facts and evidence from the literature.

You also need to detail the possible intervention plans, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interferences, develop objectives and measures, and come up with evaluation approaches for your project.

• Recommend and Discuss Your Paper

While writing a case study, you can always discuss the predictable outcomes and pen down your recommendations. The discussion covers your assignment, giving you an area to expound on the research, relate your patient’s care plan to the case, and offer a rationale.

You can then make recommendations based on the care plan. Your recommendations on the diagnosis, prognosis, and nursing care plan should be sound. For example, if it is time to release the patient who had fall injuries, recommend some homework and management strategies that can work in the home setting. Emphasis on all and everything that can be done to improve the well-being of a patient.

• Conclude Your Case Study Assignment

As you introduce every detail of your study, you must concisely conclude all of it. Then, end your nursing care study by recapping the argument. Include the critical facts such as patient performance throughout the analysis, nursing assessment, care plan, rationale, evaluation, and recommendations.

• Acknowledge the Peer's Who Helped

Write a brief thank-you paragraph to everyone who helped with the case study preparation. It is not conventional to acknowledge the patients, as they are already at medical centres to receive treatment. Furthermore, it is excessive to express gratitude for all the assignment help you have received and thank the individuals who did not directly contribute to preparing the nursing case study assignment, such as peers and lecturers.

• Give References

List all the writers whose study helped and supported your case study argument. However, make sure not to go over fifteen sources. Also, avoid referencing a personal statement or information while giving references. In your paper, provide all the facts and figures, photographs, tables, and other non-textual material. A nursing case study assignment is a healthcare academic paper. Therefore, you should use authentic sources to support recommendations and cite your case study appropriately as per style guidelines to make your research stronger than the other candidates.

Types of Nursing Assignment

Five different methods in which you can write best nursing case study assignments are: • Case Study • Group Study • Functional Study • Team Nursing Study • Primary Nursing Study

In this study method, a researcher can work one-on-one with the patient, hence providing all the functions for the patient. This result in individual work satisfaction and extra patient care

Group Study

A single nurse is assigned a group of patients, and that one nurse is responsible for taking care of all the provided patients.

Functional Study

Nurses are assigned tasks like TPR, medicine, maintenance, responsibility, and so forth. In this study, nursing care becomes fragmented and impersonal due to many nurses. (However, for practical purposes, a few activities are fictionally assigned to nurses such as providing meals and accompanying while dressing) This strategy has various advantages, so instructors are usually unwilling to abandon it. The biggest benefit of the functional study is it allows more to be accomplished in a shorter period.

However, this study gives the patient inadequate attention as the strategy is more divided and inconsistent.

Team Nursing Study

In this study, a team of nurses (2 or more – headed by staff nurse) are assigned a group of patients. This study is given to students to see how they handle the shortage of staff situation to maintain patients’ well-being.

Additional nurses incorporate into the team to take care of the load. This tactic is possible because most parts of patient care do not require any technical skills.

The assignment is based upon analysis of tasks to be performed, skills available, and supervision required. This study method is an effective strategy if properly organised and supervised.

Primary Nursing Study

The primary nursing study is similar to the case study. In this study, the nurse assumes 24-hour responsibility for the care, evaluation and planning. When the nurses are on their duty, they undertake accountability for providing total maintenance.

Another task of this study is the coordination of nursing activities with doctors and surgeons other health experts.

Example of Case Study Report Format

You can find many nursing case study examples if you google with your particular subject. In addition, a few people had researched similar topics and have posted their case studies online for new students trying to excel at their case studies. For example, the Canadian journal of nursing research archive has described how several social servants are directly connected to the nursing assignment patterns practised at the unit level. This case study describes the characteristic components of a nursing unit’s currently practised assignment pattern.

Also, the Goronlogist report on “Consistent Assignment of Nursing Staff to Residents in Nursing Homes: A Critical Review of Conceptual and Methodological Issues” talks about nursing staff being promoted to residency. In addition, this report discusses the strategies planned to improve nursing home quality and shows varying effects of consistent assignment on quality conclusions.

Similarly, nursing case study reports published by different writers are available on many platforms. So, to get good grades and improve your assignment statement, you can always take the help of these examples, and if you find a similar topic, you can always give references and use those examples in your paper.

Tricks to Remember!

A nursing case study paper is a methodological paper in essence. Therefore, it should display expertise, professionalism, and understanding of nursing concepts.

Being a nurse isn’t easy; they are sometimes given case studies, such as implementing healthcare systems or an ethical dilemma. This guide helps write a decent case study on a patient. However, if you are analysing a nursing case study on a given area of interest, here are tips and tricks to use. • Read the instructions carefully • Begin writing early • Paraphrase and Cite • Write Accordingly to the Format • Revise, Check, and Edit carefully

Finally, writing an assignment for the final exam can be overwhelming for many students. And sometimes you wonder “if I can pay someone to write my essay “. Well, yes! You can always ask people and experts for help. Not everyone is meant for writing and academic excellence, and there is no shame to admit you need help. So, you can ask your seniors, professors and even expert writers of the UK Writing Experts for assignment help whenever you see yourself struggling. At UK Writing Experts, customer support is everything – a little help and assistance never harmed anyone.

Can you write 'I' or 'in my opinion' in an assignment?

Yes, you can write I or in my opinion while doing your assignment. The significant point is to use these types of terminologies when they suit your purpose, such as when you want to distance yourself from a certain view. But beware, don’t confuse giving your personal opinion with writing about your personal experience!

Can an assignment have bullet points?

There is no rule you cannot have bullets in your assignment. That being said, if you are writing a formal assignment, be careful with the formatting of your paper. For instance, a few instructors consider too many bullet points informal for an assignment.

How can I get nursing assignment help?

Educational pressure affects your mental health, and it gets overwhelming to write or work on the research or nursing assignment. However, you can contact academic writing websites like the UK Writing Experts and hire them for nursing assignment help. Medical students often face such academic trouble, and these expert writers make student life a bit easier. Also, they maintain the privacy of every individual who seeks them for assignment help.

Administrator - AUTHOR

Recent post.

how to write a nursing case study essay

May 6, 2022

How To Write an Informative Essay Like Expert Essay Writers?

student completing his essay

March 2, 2022 March 15, 2022

How to Write An A-Level History Essay Structure

woman studying books for her dissertation report

February 22, 2022 March 15, 2022

How to Write Your Dissertation the Right Way: Do’s and Don’ts

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Connect on WhatsApp: +91 74786 38563 , Uninterrupted Access, 24x7 Availability, 100% Confidential. Connect Now

Writing Tips

A comprehensive nursing case study writing guide.

author

Aug. 4, 2023 • 7 min read

blog image

Nursing Case Study Writing Step-By-Step Guide

Nursing case studies play a vital role in the education and training of aspiring nurses in the USA, UK, UAE, and Canada. These real-life scenarios provide students with a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, enhancing their critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and decision-making skills. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to creating effective and insightful nursing case studies that meet the academic standards of these countries.

1. Choosing a Relevant Case

The foundation of a successful nursing case study is the selection of an appropriate case. Look for scenarios that align with your course's learning objectives and reflect the wide range of healthcare challenges that nurses may face. Select cases involving ethical quandaries, complex patient interactions, or situations requiring interdisciplinary collaboration.

2. Gathering Information

Thorough research is key to crafting a detailed and accurate nursing case study. Collect data from reputable sources such as medical journals, textbooks, and evidence-based practice guidelines. Ensure that the patient's medical history, current condition, and relevant clinical data are well-documented. Protect patient confidentiality by de-identifying information.

3. Setting the Stage

Introduce the case by providing basic details on the patient, the healthcare setting, and any other relevant information. Describe the patient's demographics, medical history, current symptoms, and reason for seeking medical help. This establishes the context for readers to comprehend the situation and its significance.

4. Clinical Assessment

Detail the nursing assessment process, including physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and the collection of subjective and objective data. Highlight the nurse's role in observing, interviewing, and evaluating the patient's condition. Discuss the data collected and its implications for the patient's care.

5. Diagnosis and Planning

Based on the assessment, outline the nursing diagnoses and collaborative problems. Clearly explain the rationale behind each diagnosis and present a well-reasoned plan of care. Discuss short-term and long-term goals, potential interventions, and the expected outcomes of nursing interventions.

6. Implementation and Evaluation

Describe how the nursing care plan was executed and the interventions that were implemented. Include details about the nurse's interactions with the patient, families, and other healthcare team members. Evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions, discussing any changes in the patient's condition, responses to treatment, and unexpected challenges.

7. Reflection and Learning

Encourage critical thinking by incorporating a reflection section. Invite students to analyze the case, consider alternative approaches, and reflect on what they have learned from the experience. Discuss the ethical, cultural, and emotional aspects of the case, promoting a holistic understanding of patient care.

8. References and Citations

Maintain academic integrity by properly citing all sources used in your case study. Follow the appropriate citation style (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago) as required by your institution.

Writing nursing case studies is an essential skill for nursing students in the USA, UK, and Canada. Through these case studies, students can bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing them for the complex and dynamic healthcare environments they will encounter in their careers. By carefully selecting cases, conducting thorough research, and presenting well-structured and reflective analyses, nursing students can create case studies that not only meet academic standards but also contribute to their growth as competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Our platform has been giving quality services to our students from the very beginning, all thanks to our highly-trained and professional Nursing case study helpers, who complete every task with utmost sincerity and dedication by applying all their knowledge to your projects so that you can raise your head confidently while presenting in front of your class. TutorGenix has always been ranked as the Best Nursing Case Study help in the USA, the UK, Canada, and the UAE. Our Nursing project writers will complete your academic reports, essays, homework, and whatnot, so just order us and we will help with everything we’ve got. You will get instant solutions for nursing homeworks or any other subject homework you need help with, as we have 24/7 available tutors.

Stuck With Your Homework? Get Your Homework Done From Our Expert Writers

Is there any desired work length (in words)?

No. of pages (1 page = 250 words)

Fill Your Mobile Number & Get 5$

I accept the T&C and other policies of the website and agree to receive offers and updates.

Useful Links:

  • Homework Help
  • Assignment Help
  • Live Session Help
  • Lab Report Writing
  • Project Report Writing
  • PowerPoint Presentation
  • Case Study Writing
  • Essay Writing
  • Coursework Writing

Related Articles

How to Write a Freedom Essay in 9 Steps

How to Write a Freedom Essay in 9 Steps

June 23, 2023 • 10 min read

What are the 4 types of sentences?

What are the 4 types of sentences?

June 13, 2023 • 10 min read

How to write a Lab Report?

How to write a Lab Report?

Nov. 28, 2022 • 10 min read

How to Write a Case Study - All You Wanted to Know

how to write a nursing case study essay

What do you study in your college? If you are a psychology, sociology, or anthropology student, we bet you might be familiar with what a case study is. This research method is used to study a certain person, group, or situation. In this guide from our dissertation writing service , you will learn how to write a case study professionally, from researching to citing sources properly. Also, we will explore different types of case studies and show you examples — so that you won’t have any other questions left.

What Is a Case Study?

A case study is a subcategory of research design which investigates problems and offers solutions. Case studies can range from academic research studies to corporate promotional tools trying to sell an idea—their scope is quite vast.

What Is the Difference Between a Research Paper and a Case Study?

While research papers turn the reader’s attention to a certain problem, case studies go even further. Case study guidelines require students to pay attention to details, examining issues closely and in-depth using different research methods. For example, case studies may be used to examine court cases if you study Law, or a patient's health history if you study Medicine. Case studies are also used in Marketing, which are thorough, empirically supported analysis of a good or service's performance. Well-designed case studies can be valuable for prospective customers as they can identify and solve the potential customers pain point.

Case studies involve a lot of storytelling – they usually examine particular cases for a person or a group of people. This method of research is very helpful, as it is very practical and can give a lot of hands-on information. Most commonly, the length of the case study is about 500-900 words, which is much less than the length of an average research paper.

The structure of a case study is very similar to storytelling. It has a protagonist or main character, which in your case is actually a problem you are trying to solve. You can use the system of 3 Acts to make it a compelling story. It should have an introduction, rising action, a climax where transformation occurs, falling action, and a solution.

Here is a rough formula for you to use in your case study:

Problem (Act I): > Solution (Act II) > Result (Act III) > Conclusion.

Types of Case Studies

The purpose of a case study is to provide detailed reports on an event, an institution, a place, future customers, or pretty much anything. There are a few common types of case study, but the type depends on the topic. The following are the most common domains where case studies are needed:

Types of Case Studies

  • Historical case studies are great to learn from. Historical events have a multitude of source info offering different perspectives. There are always modern parallels where these perspectives can be applied, compared, and thoroughly analyzed.
  • Problem-oriented case studies are usually used for solving problems. These are often assigned as theoretical situations where you need to immerse yourself in the situation to examine it. Imagine you’re working for a startup and you’ve just noticed a significant flaw in your product’s design. Before taking it to the senior manager, you want to do a comprehensive study on the issue and provide solutions. On a greater scale, problem-oriented case studies are a vital part of relevant socio-economic discussions.
  • Cumulative case studies collect information and offer comparisons. In business, case studies are often used to tell people about the value of a product.
  • Critical case studies explore the causes and effects of a certain case.
  • Illustrative case studies describe certain events, investigating outcomes and lessons learned.

Need a compelling case study? EssayPro has got you covered. Our experts are ready to provide you with detailed, insightful case studies that capture the essence of real-world scenarios. Elevate your academic work with our professional assistance.

order case study

Case Study Format

The case study format is typically made up of eight parts:

  • Executive Summary. Explain what you will examine in the case study. Write an overview of the field you’re researching. Make a thesis statement and sum up the results of your observation in a maximum of 2 sentences.
  • Background. Provide background information and the most relevant facts. Isolate the issues.
  • Case Evaluation. Isolate the sections of the study you want to focus on. In it, explain why something is working or is not working.
  • Proposed Solutions. Offer realistic ways to solve what isn’t working or how to improve its current condition. Explain why these solutions work by offering testable evidence.
  • Conclusion. Summarize the main points from the case evaluations and proposed solutions. 6. Recommendations. Talk about the strategy that you should choose. Explain why this choice is the most appropriate.
  • Implementation. Explain how to put the specific strategies into action.
  • References. Provide all the citations.

How to Write a Case Study

Let's discover how to write a case study.

How to Write a Case Study

Setting Up the Research

When writing a case study, remember that research should always come first. Reading many different sources and analyzing other points of view will help you come up with more creative solutions. You can also conduct an actual interview to thoroughly investigate the customer story that you'll need for your case study. Including all of the necessary research, writing a case study may take some time. The research process involves doing the following:

  • Define your objective. Explain the reason why you’re presenting your subject. Figure out where you will feature your case study; whether it is written, on video, shown as an infographic, streamed as a podcast, etc.
  • Determine who will be the right candidate for your case study. Get permission, quotes, and other features that will make your case study effective. Get in touch with your candidate to see if they approve of being part of your work. Study that candidate’s situation and note down what caused it.
  • Identify which various consequences could result from the situation. Follow these guidelines on how to start a case study: surf the net to find some general information you might find useful.
  • Make a list of credible sources and examine them. Seek out important facts and highlight problems. Always write down your ideas and make sure to brainstorm.
  • Focus on several key issues – why they exist, and how they impact your research subject. Think of several unique solutions. Draw from class discussions, readings, and personal experience. When writing a case study, focus on the best solution and explore it in depth. After having all your research in place, writing a case study will be easy. You may first want to check the rubric and criteria of your assignment for the correct case study structure.

Read Also: ' WHAT IS A CREDIBLE SOURCES ?'

Although your instructor might be looking at slightly different criteria, every case study rubric essentially has the same standards. Your professor will want you to exhibit 8 different outcomes:

  • Correctly identify the concepts, theories, and practices in the discipline.
  • Identify the relevant theories and principles associated with the particular study.
  • Evaluate legal and ethical principles and apply them to your decision-making.
  • Recognize the global importance and contribution of your case.
  • Construct a coherent summary and explanation of the study.
  • Demonstrate analytical and critical-thinking skills.
  • Explain the interrelationships between the environment and nature.
  • Integrate theory and practice of the discipline within the analysis.

Need Case Study DONE FAST?

Pick a topic, tell us your requirements and get your paper on time.

Case Study Outline

Let's look at the structure of an outline based on the issue of the alcoholic addiction of 30 people.

Introduction

  • Statement of the issue: Alcoholism is a disease rather than a weakness of character.
  • Presentation of the problem: Alcoholism is affecting more than 14 million people in the USA, which makes it the third most common mental illness there.
  • Explanation of the terms: In the past, alcoholism was commonly referred to as alcohol dependence or alcohol addiction. Alcoholism is now the more severe stage of this addiction in the disorder spectrum.
  • Hypotheses: Drinking in excess can lead to the use of other drugs.
  • Importance of your story: How the information you present can help people with their addictions.
  • Background of the story: Include an explanation of why you chose this topic.
  • Presentation of analysis and data: Describe the criteria for choosing 30 candidates, the structure of the interview, and the outcomes.
  • Strong argument 1: ex. X% of candidates dealing with anxiety and depression...
  • Strong argument 2: ex. X amount of people started drinking by their mid-teens.
  • Strong argument 3: ex. X% of respondents’ parents had issues with alcohol.
  • Concluding statement: I have researched if alcoholism is a disease and found out that…
  • Recommendations: Ways and actions for preventing alcohol use.

Writing a Case Study Draft

After you’ve done your case study research and written the outline, it’s time to focus on the draft. In a draft, you have to develop and write your case study by using: the data which you collected throughout the research, interviews, and the analysis processes that were undertaken. Follow these rules for the draft:

How to Write a Case Study

📝 Step 📌 Description
1. Draft Structure 🖋️ Your draft should contain at least 4 sections: an introduction; a body where you should include background information, an explanation of why you decided to do this case study, and a presentation of your main findings; a conclusion where you present data; and references.
2. Introduction 📚 In the introduction, you should set the pace very clearly. You can even raise a question or quote someone you interviewed in the research phase. It must provide adequate background information on the topic. The background may include analyses of previous studies on your topic. Include the aim of your case here as well. Think of it as a thesis statement. The aim must describe the purpose of your work—presenting the issues that you want to tackle. Include background information, such as photos or videos you used when doing the research.
3. Research Process 🔍 Describe your unique research process, whether it was through interviews, observations, academic journals, etc. The next point includes providing the results of your research. Tell the audience what you found out. Why is this important, and what could be learned from it? Discuss the real implications of the problem and its significance in the world.
4. Quotes and Data 💬 Include quotes and data (such as findings, percentages, and awards). This will add a personal touch and better credibility to the case you present. Explain what results you find during your interviews in regards to the problem and how it developed. Also, write about solutions which have already been proposed by other people who have already written about this case.
5. Offer Solutions 💡 At the end of your case study, you should offer possible solutions, but don’t worry about solving them yourself.

Use Data to Illustrate Key Points in Your Case Study

Even though your case study is a story, it should be based on evidence. Use as much data as possible to illustrate your point. Without the right data, your case study may appear weak and the readers may not be able to relate to your issue as much as they should. Let's see the examples from essay writing service :

‍ With data: Alcoholism is affecting more than 14 million people in the USA, which makes it the third most common mental illness there. Without data: A lot of people suffer from alcoholism in the United States.

Try to include as many credible sources as possible. You may have terms or sources that could be hard for other cultures to understand. If this is the case, you should include them in the appendix or Notes for the Instructor or Professor.

Finalizing the Draft: Checklist

After you finish drafting your case study, polish it up by answering these ‘ask yourself’ questions and think about how to end your case study:

  • Check that you follow the correct case study format, also in regards to text formatting.
  • Check that your work is consistent with its referencing and citation style.
  • Micro-editing — check for grammar and spelling issues.
  • Macro-editing — does ‘the big picture’ come across to the reader? Is there enough raw data, such as real-life examples or personal experiences? Have you made your data collection process completely transparent? Does your analysis provide a clear conclusion, allowing for further research and practice?

Problems to avoid:

  • Overgeneralization – Do not go into further research that deviates from the main problem.
  • Failure to Document Limitations – Just as you have to clearly state the limitations of a general research study, you must describe the specific limitations inherent in the subject of analysis.
  • Failure to Extrapolate All Possible Implications – Just as you don't want to over-generalize from your case study findings, you also have to be thorough in the consideration of all possible outcomes or recommendations derived from your findings.

How to Create a Title Page and Cite a Case Study

Let's see how to create an awesome title page.

Your title page depends on the prescribed citation format. The title page should include:

  • A title that attracts some attention and describes your study
  • The title should have the words “case study” in it
  • The title should range between 5-9 words in length
  • Your name and contact information
  • Your finished paper should be only 500 to 1,500 words in length.With this type of assignment, write effectively and avoid fluff

Here is a template for the APA and MLA format title page:

There are some cases when you need to cite someone else's study in your own one – therefore, you need to master how to cite a case study. A case study is like a research paper when it comes to citations. You can cite it like you cite a book, depending on what style you need.

Citation Example in MLA ‍ Hill, Linda, Tarun Khanna, and Emily A. Stecker. HCL Technologies. Boston: Harvard Business Publishing, 2008. Print.
Citation Example in APA ‍ Hill, L., Khanna, T., & Stecker, E. A. (2008). HCL Technologies. Boston: Harvard Business Publishing.
Citation Example in Chicago Hill, Linda, Tarun Khanna, and Emily A. Stecker. HCL Technologies.

Case Study Examples

To give you an idea of a professional case study example, we gathered and linked some below.

Eastman Kodak Case Study

Case Study Example: Audi Trains Mexican Autoworkers in Germany

To conclude, a case study is one of the best methods of getting an overview of what happened to a person, a group, or a situation in practice. It allows you to have an in-depth glance at the real-life problems that businesses, healthcare industry, criminal justice, etc. may face. This insight helps us look at such situations in a different light. This is because we see scenarios that we otherwise would not, without necessarily being there. If you need custom essays , try our research paper writing services .

Get Help Form Qualified Writers

Crafting a case study is not easy. You might want to write one of high quality, but you don’t have the time or expertise. If you’re having trouble with your case study, help with essay request - we'll help. EssayPro writers have read and written countless case studies and are experts in endless disciplines. Request essay writing, editing, or proofreading assistance from our custom case study writing service , and all of your worries will be gone.

Don't Know Where to Start?

Crafting a case study is not easy. You might want to write one of high quality, but you don’t have the time or expertise. Request ' write my case study ' assistance from our service.

What Is A Case Study?

How to cite a case study in apa, how to write a case study.

Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

how to write a nursing case study essay

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay

Examples

Nursing Case Study

Ai generator.

how to write a nursing case study essay

ScienceDirect posted a nursing ethics case study where an end-stage prostate cancer patient, Mr. Green, confided to nursing staff about his plan to commit suicide. The patient asked the nurse to keep it a secret. The ethical problem is whether the nurse should tell the health care team members about the patient’s thought without his permission. The best ethical decision for this nursing case study was to share this critical information with other health care professionals, which was the action the nurse took. The team adhered to the proper self-harm and suicide protocol. The appropriate team performed a palliative therapy. As a result, the patient didn’t harm himself and died peacefully a few months after he was discharged.

What Is a Nursing Case Study? A nursing case study is a detailed study of an individual patient. Through this type of research, you can gain more information about the symptoms and the medical history of a patient. It will also allow you to provide the proper diagnoses of the patient’s illness based on the symptoms he or she experienced and other affecting factors. Nursing students usually perform this study as part of their practicum, making it an essential experience because, through this research methodology , they can apply the lessons they have learned from school. The situation mentioned above was an excellent example of a nursing case study.

Nursing Case Study Format

1. introduction.

Purpose: Briefly introduces the case study, including the main health issue or condition being explored. Background: Provides context for the patient scenario, outlining the significance of the case in nursing practice. Objectives: Lists the learning objectives or goals that the case study aims to achieve.

2. Patient Information

Demographics: Age, gender, ethnicity, and relevant personal information. Medical History: Past medical history, including any chronic conditions, surgeries, or significant health events. Current Health Assessment: Presents the patient’s current health status, including symptoms, vital signs, and results from initial examinations.

3. Case Description

Clinical Presentation: Detailed description of the patient’s presentation, including physical examination findings and patient-reported symptoms. Diagnostic Findings: Summarizes diagnostic tests that were performed, including lab tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic procedures, along with their results. Treatment Plan: Outlines the initial treatment provided to the patient, including medications, therapies, surgeries, or other interventions.

4. Nursing Care Plan

Nursing Diagnoses: Identifies the nursing diagnoses based on the assessment data. Goals and Outcomes: Establishes short-term and long-term goals for the patient’s care, including expected outcomes. Interventions: Describes specific nursing interventions planned or implemented to address each nursing diagnosis and achieve the stated goals. Evaluation: Discusses the effectiveness of the nursing interventions, including patient progress and any adjustments made to the care plan.

5. Analysis

Critical Analysis: Analyzes the case in depth, considering different aspects of patient care, decision-making processes, and the application of nursing theories and principles. Reflection: Reflects on the nursing practice, lessons learned, and how the case study has impacted the understanding and application of nursing knowledge.

6. Conclusion

Summary: Provides a concise summary of the key points from the case study, including the patient outcome and the nursing care impact. Implications for Practice: Discusses the implications of the case for nursing practice, including any changes to practice or policy that could improve patient care. Recommendations: Offers recommendations for future care or areas for further study based on the case study findings.

Examples of Nursing Case Study

Management of Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) Introduction: A 58-year-old male with a history of hypertension and smoking presents to the emergency department with chest pain. This case study explores the nursing management for patients with AMI. Patient Information: Demographics: 58-year-old male, smoker. Medical History: Hypertension, no previous diagnosis of heart disease. Current Health Assessment: Reports severe chest pain radiating to his left arm, sweating, and nausea. Case Description: Clinical Presentation: Patient appeared in distress, clutching his chest. Diagnostic Findings: ECG showed ST-elevation in anterior leads. Troponin levels were elevated. Treatment Plan: Immediate administration of aspirin, nitroglycerin, and morphine for pain. Referred for emergency coronary angiography. Nursing Care Plan: Nursing Diagnoses: Acute pain related to myocardial ischemia. Goals: Relieve pain and prevent further myocardial damage. Interventions: Monitoring vital signs, administering prescribed medications, and providing emotional support. Evaluation: Pain was managed effectively, and the patient was stabilized for angiography. Analysis: The timely nursing interventions contributed to stabilizing the patient’s condition, showcasing the critical role nurses play in acute care settings. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of quick assessment and intervention in patients with AMI, emphasizing the nurse’s role in pain management and support.
Managing Type 1 Diabetes in a Pediatric Patient Introduction: A 10-year-old female diagnosed with type 1 diabetes presents for a routine check-up. This case study focuses on the nursing care plan for managing diabetes in pediatric patients. Patient Information: Demographics: 10-year-old female. Medical History: Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes six months ago. Current Health Assessment: Well-controlled blood glucose levels, but expresses difficulty with frequent insulin injections. Case Description: Clinical Presentation: Patient is active, engaging in school activities but struggles with diabetes management. Diagnostic Findings: HbA1c is 7.2%, indicating good control. Treatment Plan: Insulin therapy, carbohydrate counting, and regular blood glucose monitoring. Nursing Care Plan: Nursing Diagnoses: Risk for unstable blood glucose levels. Goals: Maintain blood glucose within target range and increase patient comfort with diabetes management. Interventions: Education on insulin pump use, dietary advice, and coping strategies. Evaluation: Patient showed interest in using an insulin pump and understood dietary recommendations. Analysis: This case emphasizes the importance of education and emotional support in managing chronic conditions in pediatric patients. Conclusion: Effective management of type 1 diabetes in children requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, technological aids, and psychological support.
Elderly Care for Alzheimer’s Disease Introduction: An 82-year-old female with Alzheimer’s disease presents with increased confusion and agitation. This case study examines the complexities of caring for elderly patients with Alzheimer’s. Patient Information: Demographics: 82-year-old female. Medical History: Alzheimer’s disease, osteoarthritis. Current Health Assessment: Increased confusion, agitation, and occasional aggression. Case Description: Clinical Presentation: Patient exhibits signs of advanced Alzheimer’s with memory loss and disorientation. Diagnostic Findings: Cognitive tests confirm the progression of Alzheimer’s. Treatment Plan: Non-pharmacological interventions for agitation, memory aids, and safety measures in the home. Nursing Care Plan: Nursing Diagnoses: Impaired memory related to Alzheimer’s disease. Goals: Reduce agitation and prevent harm. Interventions: Use of calming techniques, establishing a routine, and environmental modifications. Evaluation: Agitation was reduced, and the patient’s safety was improved through environmental adjustments. Analysis: The case underscores the need for tailored interventions to manage Alzheimer’s symptoms and improve the quality of life for the elderly. Conclusion: Nursing care for Alzheimer’s patients requires a multifaceted approach focusing on safety, symptom management, and patient dignity.

Nursing Case Study Topics with Samples to Edit & Download

  • Telehealth Nursing
  • Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing
  • Geriatric Nursing Care
  • Palliative and End-of-Life Care
  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Emergency and Critical Care Nursing
  • Chronic Disease Management
  • Nursing Ethics and Patient Rights
  • Infection Control and Prevention
  • Oncology Nursing
  • Nursing Leadership and Management
  • Cultural Competence in Nursing
  • Substance Abuse and Addiction Nursing
  • Technological Innovations in Nursing
  • Nursing Education and Training

Nursing Case Study Examples & Templates

1. nursing case study template.

Nursing Case Study Template

2. Free Nursing Student Care Plan Template

Free Nursing Student Care Plan Template

3. Nursing Action Case Study Example

Nursing Action Case Study Example

4. Hospital Nursing Care Case Study Example

Hospital Nursein Care Case Study Example

5. Printable Nursing Health Case Study Example

Nursing Health Case Study Example

professays.com

6. Fundamentals of Nursing Case Study Example

Fundamentals of Nursing Case Study Example

secure-ecsd.elsevier.com

7. Sample Nursing Case Study Example

Sample Nursing Case Study Example

caresearch.com.au

8. Nursing Research Case Study Example

Nursing Research Case Study Example

9. Standard Nursing Case Study Example

Standard Nursing Case Study

resourcecenter.ovid.com

10. Nursing Disability Case Study Example

Nursing Disability Case Study Example

careerswales.com

11. Nursing care Patients Case Study Example

Nursing care Patients Case Study

12. School of Nursing Case Study Example

School of Nursing Case Study Example

ebn.bmj.com

13. Evaluation of Nursing Care Case Study Example

Evaluation of Nursing Care Case Study Example

philadelphia.edu

Nursing Case Study Segments

Typically, a nursing case study contains three main categories, such as the items below.

1. The Status of a Patient

In this section, you will provide the patient’s information, such as medical history, and give the current patient’s diagnosis, condition, and treatment. Always remember to write down all the relevant information about the patient. Other items that you can collect in this stage are the reasons for the patient to seek medical care and the initial symptoms that he or she is experiencing. After that, based on the gathered information, you will explain the nature and cause of the illness of the patient.

2. The Nursing Assessment of the Patient

In this stage, you will need to prepare your evaluation of the patient’s condition. You should explain each observation that you have collected based on the vital signs and test results. You will also explain each nursing diagnosis that you have identified and determine the proper nursing care plan for the patient.

3. The Current Care Plan and Recommendations

Describe the appropriate care plan that you can recommend to the patient based on the diagnosis, current status, and prognosis in detail, including how the care plan will affect his or her life quality. If needed, you can also evaluate the patient’s existing care plan and give recommendations to enhance it. It is also crucial to cite relevant authoritative sources that will support your recommendations .

Objectives of Nursing Case Study

Nursing case studies are integral educational tools that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application in patient care. They serve several key objectives essential for the development of nursing students and professionals. Here are the primary objectives of nursing case studies:

1. Enhance Critical Thinking and Clinical Reasoning

Case studies encourage nurses to analyze complex patient scenarios, make informed decisions, and apply critical thinking skills to solve problems. They simulate real-life situations, requiring nurses to evaluate data, consider multiple outcomes, and choose the best course of action.

2. Improve Diagnostic Skills

Through the detailed analysis of patient information, symptoms, and diagnostic results, nursing case studies help improve diagnostic skills. They allow nurses to practice interpreting clinical data to identify patient conditions and understand the underlying causes of symptoms.

3. Facilitate Application of Theoretical Knowledge

Nursing case studies provide a direct bridge between classroom learning and clinical practice. They offer a practical venue for applying theoretical knowledge about anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing theories to real-world patient care situations.

4. Promote Understanding of Comprehensive Patient Care

These studies emphasize the importance of holistic care, considering the physical, emotional, social, and psychological aspects of patient well-being. Nurses learn to develop comprehensive care plans that address all facets of a patient’s health.

5. Encourage Reflective Practice and Self-Assessment

Reflecting on case study outcomes enables nurses to evaluate their own decision-making processes, clinical judgments, and actions. This self-assessment promotes continuous learning and professional growth by identifying areas for improvement.

6. Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Case studies often involve scenarios that require collaboration among healthcare professionals from various disciplines. They teach nurses the value of teamwork, communication, and the integration of different expertise to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

7. Enhance Patient Education and Advocacy Skills

By working through case studies, nurses improve their ability to educate patients and families about health conditions, treatment plans, and preventive measures. They also learn to advocate for their patients’ needs and preferences within the healthcare system.

8. Prepare for Real-Life Challenges

Nursing case studies prepare students and new nurses for the unpredictability and challenges of real-life clinical settings. They provide safe, controlled environments to practice responses to emergencies, ethical dilemmas, and complex patient needs without the risk of actual harm.

Steps in Nursing Process

Whether you are handling a patient with schizophrenia, pneumonia, diabetes, appendicitis, hypertension, COPD, etc, you will need to follow specific steps to ensure that you are executing the critical nursing process.

1. Assess the Patient

The first step of the nursing process requires critical thinking skills as it involves gathering both subjective and objective data. Subjective data includes verbal statements that you can collect from the patient or caregiver. In contrast, objective information refers to measurable and tangible data, such as vital signs, height, weight, etc. You can also use other sources of information, such as electronic health records, and friends that are in direct contact with the patient.

2. Diagnose the Patient

This critical step will help you in the next steps, such as planning and implementation of patient care. In this step, you will formulate a nursing diagnosis by applying clinical judgment. As a nurse, the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA) will give you an up-to-date nursing diagnosis list, which will allow you to form a diagnosis based on the actual health problem.

3. Plan for a Proper Patient Care Plan

This part is where you will plan out the appropriate care plan for the patient. You will set this goal following the evidence-based practice (EDP) guidelines. The goal you will set should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely ( SMART ).

4. Implement the Plan

In this stage, you can execute the plan that you have developed in the previous step. The implementation may need interventions such as a cardiac monitor, medication administration, etc.

5. Evaluate the Results

It is crucial to remember that every time the team does an intervention, you must do a reassessment to ensure that the process will lead to a positive result. You may need to reassess the patient depending on his progress, and the care plan may be modified based on the reassessment result.

Where to find nursing case studies?

Nursing case studies can be found in a variety of academic, professional, and medical resources. Here are some key places to look for nursing case studies:

  • Academic Journals : Many academic journals focus on nursing and healthcare and publish case studies regularly. Examples include the “Journal of Clinical Nursing,” “Nursing Case Studies,” and “American Journal of Nursing.”
  • University and College Libraries : Many academic institutions provide access to databases and journals that contain nursing case studies. Libraries often have subscriptions to these resources.
  • Online Medical Libraries : Websites like PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Wiley Online Library offer a vast collection of nursing and medical case studies.
  • Professional Nursing Organizations : Organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National League for Nursing (NLN) often provide resources, including case studies, for their members.
  • Nursing Education Websites : Websites dedicated to nursing education, such as Lippincott NursingCenter and Nurse.com, often feature case studies for educational purposes.
  • Government Health Websites : The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) sometimes publish case studies related to public health nursing and disease outbreaks.
  • Nursing Textbooks and eBooks : Many nursing textbooks and eBooks include case studies to illustrate key concepts and scenarios encountered in practice.
  • Online Nursing Forums and Communities : Forums and online communities for nursing professionals may share or discuss case studies as part of their content.
  • Conference Proceedings : Nursing and healthcare conferences often include presentations of case studies. Many of these are published in the conference proceedings, which may be accessible online.

Carrying out a nursing case study can be a delicate task since it puts the life of a person at stake. Thus, it requires a thorough investigation. With that said, it is essential to gain intensive knowledge about this type of study. Today, we have discussed an overview of how to conduct a nursing case study. However, if you think that you are having problems with your writing skills , we recommend you to consider looking for an essay writing service from the experts in the nursing department to ensure that the output follows the appropriate writing style and terminology.

Twitter

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

📕 Studying HQ

10 Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples [Format + Structure]

Bob cardens.

  • August 6, 2022

If you are a nursing student, you may be asked to write a case study analysis. This can be a daunting task, but it is possible to do if you follow some simple steps. Here we include Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples to help you get started.

First, read the case study and make sure you understand the situation. Next, identify the key players involved and their role in the case. Finally, analyze the data presented and draw your own conclusions.

Writing a case study analysis can be challenging, but it is also an excellent way to learn more about nursing care. By taking the time to understand the situation and identify the key players, you will be able to gain valuable insights that can be applied to future cases.

What You'll Learn

10 Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples

TitleDescriptionPurpose
The case analysis explores some of the ways in which the curriculum development leader can adopt measures that enhance faculty support and development in the task of curriculum developmentProblem-solving case analysis
  The case analysis explores the issues that the Dean of a nursing school should do to ensure a new curriculum is developedProblem-solving case analysis
This post includes benchmark patient’s spiritual needs: case analysis benchmark, how would a spiritual needs assessment help the physician, how would a spiritual needs assessment help the physician assistant mike, definition of spiritual care and ethical decision-making and intervention in the event of a difficult situation.Explores the spiritual needs of patients and how to address them.
The post includes a case study: fetal abnormality gcu, and discussions on the Christian concept of the imago Dei, and what value does a human person have? How does your position affect your stance on controversial bioethical issues, such as abortion, designer babies, and stem cell research.Explores ethical and spiritual influences to decision making
Utilizes systematic problem-solving method, nurses can determine the health care needs of an individual and provide personalized care.Improve care planning and decision-making. Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples
The post includes Case Study: Healing and Autonomy Case Study, applying the four principles: case study, answers questions about a patient’s spiritual needs in light of the Christian worldview, describes how principalism would be applied according to the Christian worldview, the importance of each of the four principles, and What do the four parts of the Christian biblical narrative (i.e., creation, fall, redemption, and restoration) say about the nature of God and of reality in relation to the reality of sickness and disease?Helps nurses learn how to ethically analyze a case. Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples
Evaluates the Health History and Medical Information for Mr. C. and expects the nurse to demonstrate an enhanced understanding of the pathophysiological processes of disease, the clinical manifestations and treatment protocols, and how they affect clients across the life span.Improves the decision making of nurses. Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples
The paper proposes a change project at ABC Medical Center (ABC-MC) in response to the prevailing forces, identifies the need for change before developing a vision that inspires the change and provides a rationale for the change.Case analysis example of a change project
The nursing case study example on Death and Dying and answers questions on Suffering and the Fallenness of the World, Suffering and the Hope of Resurrection, Value of Life, Euthanasia, and Morally Justified Options, also offers an analysis of the sin of suicide.Explores Ethical end of life decision making.
Case analysis of a scenarioImproves the decision making of nurses

Nursing Case study Analysis Format and Structure

When it comes to writing a case study analysis, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, there is a general format and structure that you can follow to ensure your analysis is well-organized and flows smoothly. Here are the basics:

A nursing case study is a detailed study of a patient that is encountered by a nurse. The purpose of the case study is to provide a comprehensive view of the patient’s health condition and history. Nurse practitioners use case studies to enhance their ability to care for patients by providing them with a more complete picture of the patient’s health. Nurse practitioners may use different formats for their nursing case studies. However, all case studies should include certain key elements. These key elements include:

As a nursing practitioner, you will be responsible for analyzing patient cases and providing care based on your findings. There are key elements that you must take into account when performing a case analysis in order to ensure that you are providing the best possible care for your patients.

  • The first element is the patient’s history. You will need to obtain a complete medical history in order to understand the background of the case and identify any potential risk factors.
  • Next, you will need to perform a physical examination of the patient. This will help you to identify any physical signs or symptoms that may be related to the case.
  • You will also need to order and review any laboratory tests or imaging studies that have been performed on the patient. These results can provide valuable information about the patient’s condition.
  • Once you have gathered all of this information, you will need to start piecing together the puzzle to form a diagnosis. This process will involve synthesizing all of the information you have gathered and making a determination about what is causing the patient’s symptoms.
  • Once you have made a diagnosis, you can start developing a treatment plan. This plan should be tailored specifically to the needs of the individual patient.

When writing a nursing case study, nurse practitioners should use a clear and concise format. The format should be easy to follow and understand. Nurse practitioners should also include all of the key elements in their nursing case studies. Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples

How to write a case study assignment

A case study is an in-depth analysis of a real-life situation or incident, as a way to illustrate content and theory to students. It is usually presented as a written report, but can also be done in the form of a presentation, video, or multimedia production.

Case studies are used in many different disciplines, including business, law, psychology, nursing, social work, and medical sciences.

A case study assignment is a type of paper that requires you to analyze a real-life or fictional situation and offer possible solutions. This can be a challenging task, but if you follow some basic guidelines, you can write a successful case study assignment.

Here are some tips on how to write a case study assignment:

  • Read the case study carefully. Make sure you understand the situation and the problem that needs to be solved.
  • Research the subject matter. You will need to have a good understanding of the relevant theories and concepts in order to offer possible solutions.
  • Read the case study carefully. This may seem obvious, but it is important to get a clear understanding of the situation before you start writing. Make sure you have all the relevant facts and figures to hand before you start.
  • Identify the key issues. Once you have read and understood the case study, you need to identify the key issues that it raises. These will form the basis of your analysis.
  • Research the law/theory applicable to the key issues. Once you have identified the key issues, you need to research the law or theory that applies to them. This will help you to form your arguments and conclusions.
  • Write your paper. Be sure to present your analysis in a clear and concise manner. Your paper should be well-organized and well-written

Start by filling this short order form order.studyinghq.com

And then follow the progressive flow. 

Having an issue, chat with us here

Cathy, CS. 

New Concept ? Let a subject expert write your paper for You​

Have a subject expert write for you now, have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter.

Typically replies within minutes

Hey! 👋 Need help with an assignment?

🟢 Online | Privacy policy

WhatsApp us

How to Write a Nursing Case Study: Full Guide

June 16, 2022 Posts Eliud

Whether you are pursuing a BSN, APN, or DNP, having skills in how to write a nursing case study is one of the requirements needed. Many nursing students feel overwhelmed and get frustrated when writing nursing case study analyses based on patient scenarios. This is where our nursing case study experts help you relieve the stress of writing a case study. Our professionals have the proper expertise to help you get all the case study answers in the format specified in the instructions and rubric. We’ve got you covered if all you need right now is a guide on how to complete a nursing case study analysis on a given patient scenario. The critical parts that must appear in the analysis and the general format of these case studies are two aspects.

What is a Nursing Case Study?

An in-depth analysis of a single patient is presented as a case study. Case studies are a kind of research conducted in the field of nursing. These studies concentrate on a single patient and give information regarding that patient’s symptoms, medical history, and diagnosis.

Nursing Case Study

Students in nursing may be presented with case studies and asked to diagnose patients based on the information provided about the patients’ symptoms, medical histories, and any other pertinent facts. There is also the possibility that nursing students may be required to write their case studies. The students present a case they have worked on, including the patient, the symptoms, the diagnosis, the therapies, and the information gained from a physical examination. Nursing students may put the theoretical information they’ve gained in the classroom to a more practical, clinical use by reading a case study and coming up with a diagnosis after reading about a patient’s condition. Writing case studies is a great learning technique because it requires students to think about the whole treatment process for a patient. This includes everything from gathering crucial information, diagnosing the medical problem, and providing therapy for the illness. To complete a case study, one must pay close attention to detail and collect all pertinent and significant material. One of the most effective methods is to ensure that you are asking the appropriate questions. Consider the patient’s age, sex, occupation, and location in your thoughts. Also, think about the qualities of the patient. Students are responsible for monitoring their vital signs, temperature, and blood pressure . They also need to consider the symptoms: How serious is the situation? When exactly did they begin? Students writing and reading case studies may have enough knowledge to make a better diagnosis if they ask many questions and obtain a lot of information by conducting a thorough investigation.

How to write a nursing case study

Considerable thought and care are required to produce a high-quality case study paper for a nursing school. Unfortunately, students often start writing before they have completed the necessary and acceptable processes that come before it. In an ideal scenario, you would already know the main point of your paper and its structure before beginning to work on it. After this, you will go on to the next stage, which is the step of fact-gathering, in which you will collect and organize the material of your paper. Last but not least, there is the construction/execution process, in which you will compose the paper in a standard format (such as the APA style), then modify it.

A nursing case study paper is divided into multiple components, which may be broken down into the following three groups: 1. An update on the patient’s condition Information about demographics The Past of Medicine Current diagnostic procedures and therapeutic options 2. An evaluation of the patient performed by the nurse Vital signs and test results Observations made by nurses (i.e., range of motion, mental state) 3. The Currently Employed Treatment Plan and Suggestions The specifics of the strategy for nursing care (including nursing goals and interventions) An analysis of the already used treatment strategy Recommendations for changes to the care plan that is currently in effect Patient Status The first section of the case study paper will be devoted to the discussion of the patient, including who they are, the reason(s) for which they are being included in the study, their demographic data (such as age and race), the reason(s) for which they sought medical attention, and the diagnosis that was ultimately reached. Additionally, the function of nursing in the overall care of this patient will be analyzed and discussed. The next step is to have an in-depth conversation about any illness process. Be careful to include the origins, symptoms, and observations of the condition and how the favored therapies might impact nursing care. In addition, please include a history of the condition and its development. Important questions include 1) What were the first warning signs that anything was wrong? and 2) Which symptoms ultimately persuaded the patient to seek medical attention?

Evaluation of Nursing Care

When talking about the nursing evaluation of the patient, characterize the patient’s difficulties using nursing diagnoses. This will help the conversation go more smoothly. Please provide a detailed explanation of why you have chosen a particular diagnosis. For instance, does the patient’s need to urinate frequently disrupt their normal sleep pattern? The nursing care plan will be formed based on the nursing diagnosis you determine throughout the exam. The Currently Implemented Care Plan, as well as Suggestions for its Further Development Describe the nursing care plan and its aims, and then describe how the nursing care plan contributes to an improvement in the patient’s overall quality of life. How does the patient’s life need to be improved so that the nursing care plan may be considered successful? How exactly is the care plan going to be implemented? Who exactly will be in charge of putting the care plan into action? To evaluate the strategy’s efficacy, what specific quantifiable objectives will they monitor? Your suggestions must be included in the final discussion. In light of the patient’s present condition, the doctor’s diagnosis, the prognosis, and the nursing care plan, what additional steps do you advise the nurse to boost the patient’s chances of full recovery? Your suggestions need to be backed up by credible sources, and your citations must be formatted correctly and follow APA style requirements. It is not necessary for there to be a significant amount of difficulty involved in producing a nursing case study paper that is properly written. It is possible to feel fulfilled by doing so, and it is also beneficial training for evaluating patients when working in the field. Keep in mind that the quality of the content of your paper is not the only factor that will determine how you are graded; your teacher will also assess you on how effectively you use the APA style. For example, suppose you discover that you are spending excessive time formatting your paper. In that case, you may consider utilizing formatting software as a valuable tool to guarantee correctness. This will ensure that you do not lose points on a paper that is well written because of any formatting problems.

Case study topics in nursing

Everyone is aware that nursing school is a highly challenging field. But it calls for an in-depth understanding of the complexity of a variety of illnesses as well as human behavior, among other things. In addition, to finish their degree program, they are assigned various academic writing assignments, such as a case study, to evaluate their conceptual understanding. This is the second reason every student must finish their document and turn it in before the deadline to receive better grades. Let us have a look at some of the interesting subjects that might be the subject of the case study: 1. Conflicts involving ethics and the law in the health care industry 2. The contribution of social media to the treatment of patients during the epidemic of Covid-19 3. An in-depth look at the ABC illness 4. The identification of a newly emerging illness, such as the coronavirus 5. Problems with anxiety and sadness among young people 6. An unusual study of mammograms in males 7: A case study of a patient with the initials XYZ 8. People may take action to lower their cholesterol levels 9. The misunderstandings that people have about health care 10. The changing face of the health care industry 11. The issue of back pain at a young age 12. The rise in the number of health issues caused by smoking 13. Pollution causing fatal illnesses without a treatment 14. The need for nurse education for patients 15. The impact of allergies on patients 16. Patients who require intensive nursing care 17. Circumstances that are contributing to a decline in the mental and physical health of today’s youth 18. Recurrent pericardial effusion in patients with cancer 19. Possible causes of oral issues at an early age 20. Diabetes in youngsters

Case study nursing examples

A case study in cardiac nursing of an older man with acute myocardial infarction. Cardiac nursing is the care of individuals suffering from different cardiovascular diseases. Many academics worldwide have found it difficult to write a nursing case study project on myocardial infarction. Unlike many online businesses, we assist students with such issues and guarantee that they get high scores. After providing our nursing case study project topic examples, we don’t overcharge our consumers. We provide them free samples and charge a nominal price for others. A Nursing Case Study of a Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus. Patient It is a resistance disorder to the action of an anti-diuretic hormone characterized by excessive urine flow and intense thirstiness that prompts one to drink a lot of water and, therefore, pee a lot. Only specialists can develop unique nursing project ideas that have never been published. Scholars like Research Topic Help because we meet all of their topic-creation requirements. A case study of an elderly guy who was taken to the hospital with severe chest discomfort. Chest discomfort occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is impeded by a partial or total coronary artery blockage caused by plaque formation. When evaluating a patient, it is critical to pay attention to all of the information provided by the patient. Our project examples are prepared by Ph.D.-level specialists who have served as examiners at prestigious institutions. They comprehend everything required to do a case study on a patient experiencing chest discomfort.

There are many examples including political science research case studies, nursing care studies etc

Nursing Case Study Template

Before working on a nursing case study, you must read the patient scenario, assignment instructions, and rubric. These three papers will give you a general understanding of what your teacher will look for when grading your paper. The goal is to get the highest possible score on the rubric. To that end, here are some critical components of your nursing case study: Page Title Abstract Introduction Presentation of a Case Pathophysiology Nursing Care Strategy Recommendations and Discussion Conclusion References

Nursing delegation case study

In most cases, delegation entails assigning the execution of activities or tasks connected to patient care to unlicensed assistance workers while continuing to take responsibility for the result of those activities or tasks. The registered nurse can’t transfer any tasks associated with making nursing judgments. Assessment and evaluation of the influence that interventions have on the care that is delivered to the patient are two examples of nursing duties that cannot be assigned to unlicensed support workers. These activities are within the purview of the registered nurse. Transferring responsibility for completing work from one person to another while maintaining personal accountability for the final result is what is meant by the term “delegation.” By way of example, the Registered Nurse (RN) passes the duty to execute a job to an assistive person. Still, she continues to be professionally accountable for the care provided.

Nursing case studies help

Nursing has been recognized as an essential component of the healthcare business ever since its inception, even though the healthcare sector is often regarded as one of the essential industries. Therefore, people who want to work in nursing or a related field have access to training and education opportunities since this sector has always been one of the most important in the healthcare industry from the very beginning. Therefore, to be successful in the nursing profession, you will need to read a lot of nursing case studies. Therefore, if you want to hunt for assistance with Nursing Case Studies on the internet, know we are the right spot for you to get high-quality materials online. The primary goal of nursing service is to provide care to patients for various healthcare needs, including post-surgical assistance, surgical assistance, and specific medical services, amongst many others. This care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private homes. To provide these services, a nurse must have the necessary professional experience and qualifications. As a result, nurses must undergo professional training just like workers in other professions, and case studies are considered a component of this training.

When students need help creating a Nursing Case Study, they should contact us. Since they come from intellectually stimulating backgrounds, our professionals can provide professional case study assignment assistance on the topic of Nursing. Furthermore, they can aid with the complexities of creating and solving case studies. The desire to participate in nursing case studies may arise for various reasons, including the strain of many assignments, difficulties in adopting the cultures of people who live in other countries, stress from having part-time work, and several other important factors. In our fast-paced and competitive world, it may be quite challenging to adapt to the many aspects of one’s life to advance one’s professional career to the highest possible level. Despite this, getting assistance with nursing case studies from our trained writers might reduce students’ stress about completing their projects and doing well on their exams. Writing nursing case studies is something that we recommend to students to get excellent grades and develop a solid comprehension of the subject matter, in addition to covering every important aspect of nursing services.

Online nursing papers 

how to write a nursing case study essay

PLACE THIS ORDER OR A SIMILAR ORDER WITH NURSING PAPERS MARKET TODAY AND GET AN AMAZING DISCOUNT

get-your-custom-paper

Search Products

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write a Nursing Case Study Paper (A Guide)

    Ensure your summary has at least the case presentation, the nursing assessment/diagnosis, the intervention, and the key recommendations. At the very end of your conclusion, add a closing statement. The statement should wrap up the whole thing nicely. Try to make it as impressive as possible. 9.

  2. How to Write a Case Study Paper for Nursing

    A nursing case study paper contains several sections that fall into three categories: 1. The status of the patient. Demographic data. Medical History. Current diagnosis and treatment. 2. The nursing assessment of the patient. Vital signs and test results.

  3. Steps To Writing A Nursing Case Study Paper For BSN, MSN, And DNP Students

    Start by briefly describing the research problem or question, followed by a summary of your methods, key findings, and conclusion. Keep the abstract within 250-300 words and ensure it provides a clear snapshot of your study. When writing the abstract, remember to use clear and concise language.

  4. Nursing Case Study Examples and Solutions

    Critical Care Nursing Case Study Examples . Critical care nursing demands swift decision-making, advanced technical skills, and the ability to provide intensive care to acutely ill patients. Our critical care nursing case studies encompass a range of high-acuity scenarios, including trauma, cardiac emergencies, and respiratory distress.

  5. How To Write And Format Evidence-Based Nursing Case Studies

    Write the Abstract: Summarize the key points of the case study. Develop the Introduction: Provide background information and state the problem. Detail the Patient Profile: Include demographics and medical history. Present the Assessment Data: Include subjective and objective data, and diagnostic results.

  6. How To Write A Nursing Case Study Analysis

    To write a case study analysis in nursing, follow these steps: Introduction: Begin with a brief overview of the patient, the diagnosis, and the purpose of the case study. Patient History: Present the patient's background, including age, gender, medical history, and any relevant social or family history.

  7. Writing a Nursing case study: Beginners Guide

    Unique nursing case study topics. When writing a nursing case study essay, you need to be familiar with all relevant topics. Using unique topics to help you write a high-quality nursing case study that will meet your instructor's requirements is essential. Below are special topics to make a case study for nursing students; Case study on ABC ...

  8. How to Write a Case Study Paper for Nursing

    Step 3. Understand the questions. You need to figure out every word to receive the correct answer. Try to rephrase the question and underline keywords to grasp the main idea. Moreover, you may need to clarify and search for more information to understand the question better.

  9. How to Write a Nursing Essay

    As writing a nursing essay nears the end, resist the urge to introduce new elements. Summarize your main points concisely. Remind the reader of the real-world significance of your thesis - why it matters in the broader context of nursing. ... Current Trends: Highlight technological advancements in nursing. Case Study: Share an example of ...

  10. Nursing Essay: Guide, Steps, Tips, Structure, Format, & Topics

    Nursing Essay Writing Process. A typical nursing essay writing process takes three stages: prewriting, writing, and post-writing. Of course, this also applies when writing a nursing research paper or a case study, for that matter. Note that the time, effort, and dedication required may differ depending on the essay's type, length, and scope.

  11. Case study report for nursing

    Let's compare the case study to the essays you might have already written. The case study in nursing explores a particular patient's situation, while your essays will more likely have focused on disease, a treatment, a concept, or a system. A case study is very grounded in the real and the now, even if the patient is a hypothetical invention.

  12. Nursing Student's Guide to Writing Well

    While on your nursing school journey, case studies will offer another opportunity to practice effective research and writing. A case study is an in-depth analysis of a real or hypothetical patient, highlighting their medical history, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. What sets nursing case studies apart from other disciplines is ...

  13. Case Analysis in Health Sciences

    Case analysis essays allow you to make connections between the concepts you learn in a health science class and the facts of an actual health case. In most cases, your professor will give you a case study that describes the facts of a particular health situation. Sometimes the case study will focus on a particular community or organization ...

  14. How to write a case study assignment in nursing

    A nursing case study is an in-depth investigation and accompanying explanation of a patient or a group of patients suffering from a specific illness or disor...

  15. What is a case study?

    Case study is a research methodology, typically seen in social and life sciences. There is no one definition of case study research.1 However, very simply… 'a case study can be defined as an intensive study about a person, a group of people or a unit, which is aimed to generalize over several units'.1 A case study has also been described as an intensive, systematic investigation of a ...

  16. Nursing Case Study: Ethics, Format & Examples

    How to Write a Nursing Case Study: Step by Step Guide . When writing a nursing case study, it's vital to maintain a clear, structured and detail-oriented approach. Here, you will learn a standard step-by-step guide to creating your case study. Review the Patient History: Start by gathering all relevant details about the patient's medical ...

  17. How to Write a Nursing Case Study + Examples, Format, & Tips

    Below you will find case study samples for various topics. Using them as a reference will improve your writing. If you need more ideas, you are welcome to use our free title-generating tool. Case study: healing and autonomy. Sara's case study: maternal and child nursing. COPD medical diagnostics: case study.

  18. A Guide on How To Write a Nursing Case Study Assignment

    While writing a case study, you can always discuss the predictable outcomes and pen down your recommendations. The discussion covers your assignment, giving you an area to expound on the research, relate your patient's care plan to the case, and offer a rationale. You can then make recommendations based on the care plan.

  19. A Comprehensive Nursing Case Study Writing Guide

    7. Reflection and Learning. Encourage critical thinking by incorporating a reflection section. Invite students to analyze the case, consider alternative approaches, and reflect on what they have learned from the experience. Discuss the ethical, cultural, and emotional aspects of the case, promoting a holistic understanding of patient care. 8.

  20. How to Write a Case Study: from Outline to Examples

    1. Draft Structure. 🖋️ Your draft should contain at least 4 sections: an introduction; a body where you should include background information, an explanation of why you decided to do this case study, and a presentation of your main findings; a conclusion where you present data; and references. 2. Introduction.

  21. Nursing Case Study

    Case studies encourage nurses to analyze complex patient scenarios, make informed decisions, and apply critical thinking skills to solve problems. They simulate real-life situations, requiring nurses to evaluate data, consider multiple outcomes, and choose the best course of action. 2. Improve Diagnostic Skills.

  22. 10 Nursing Case Study Analysis Examples [Format

    Purpose. Nursing Case Study Example - Meadowvale University School Of Nursing -. The case analysis explores some of the ways in which the curriculum development leader can adopt measures that enhance faculty support and development in the task of curriculum development. Problem-solving case analysis.

  23. How to Write a Nursing Case Study: Full Guide

    Nursing Case Study Template. Before working on a nursing case study, you must read the patient scenario, assignment instructions, and rubric. These three papers will give you a general understanding of what your teacher will look for when grading your paper. The goal is to get the highest possible score on the rubric.