Purpose: This study aimed to provide a theoretical basis for career anchors of nurses by defining and organizing its concept. Methods: Using the Walker and Avant concept analysis, a total of 29 articles were analyzed through a literature search in this study. Results: The career anchors of nurses are individual career choice motives, a self-concept where in competency and values are harmonized, which act as a desire for growth and development in nursing, and are actions that maintain careers. Additionally, they indicate the direction for achieving individual career goals and act as a core value expected of nurses by nursing organizations, indicating continuous and integrated professional
growth and development of the nursing profession. Conclusion: The career anchors of nurses identified in the results contribute to securing patient safety, providing quality care through policies, institutionalizing bases for career development, preventing nurse turnover, and retaining skilled nurses.