This is a bibliographic research about Brazilian scientific production in the last 17 years, carried out in the Virtual Health Library. This study aimed to analyze conceptual differences for the terms conceptual framework, reference framework, care method, assistance model, care model, care process and nursing process, proposing definitions for these terms based on the similarities described by the authors of the publications studied. Fifty-three (53) scientific productions were analyzed, which showed a lack of conceptual clarity among the terms, as well as similarities, differences, and use of synonyms, which can hamper the understanding of their meaning. The definition of the terms listed was based on the selected literature, in order to clarify them and contribute to their deeper understanding. In conclusion, it is needed to present proposals need to be presented that define and analyze the concepts, in order to be able to expand the knowledge base of nursing in Brazil, contributing to its advancement and consolidation.
Knowledge; Nursing; Nursing care; Nursing process
