The word "barrier" has been used in diverse disciplines and by many different writers and investigators. However, the term is not always explicitly defined. The purposes of this concept analysis are:
1. To identify and clarify the essential meaning of the term "barrier."
2. Develop an operational definition of the term.
3. Assist in tool development for research.
The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (1992) defines a barrier using several general referents. First, a barrier is said to be a structure built to bar passage such as a fence or a wall. Second, a barrier is said to refer to something immaterial that can obstruct or impede; for example, intolerance can be said to be a barrier or obstacle to understanding. Third, the term barrier is used to refer to a boundary or limit, and/or something that separates or holds apart.
The fourth definition given for barrier is ecological. The ecological definition or framework defines barrier as a physical or biological factor that limits the migration, interbreeding, or free movement of individuals or populations. A barrier is also used to refer to the movable gate that keeps racehorses in line before the start of a race; in addition, the term can be used to refer to the palisades or fences enclosing the lists of a medieval tournament.
Literature Review: Uses of the Concept
Regarding nursing practice and patient care, the concept of barrier has been used in relation to diverse medical/nursing practices. Most frequently, the concept of barrier has been used to refer to: (1) An obstacle to access or utilization of health care services and or a factor that disrupts the delivery of patient care services (Hurtado, Barber & Borton, 1996; Peterson, Kinnenman & Turner, 1996); (2) Any impediment or obstacle to the funding of nurse education (Weeks, Starck, Liehr and LaFontaine, 1996); (3) A restriction of the range of nursing practices that can b...