Abstract
AIM: Analysis of the concepts and development of a conceptual definition of being wheelchair-bound and being bedridden. DESIGN: Concept analysis. METHODS: Walker and Avant´s concept analysis method was used. A thematic analysis guided the determination of the attributes, antecedents and consequences. RESULTS: Being wheelchair-bound and being bedridden are defined as permanent states in which people are bound to an object. Being passively bound to a wheelchair and being bedridden both mean an increasing restriction of the life-space. Being passive wheelchair-bound often represents a preliminary stage to being bedridden. Both concepts have six attributes: in need of help, powerlessness, life-space confinement, mobility limitation, endurance and weakness. They differ in the main feature maintaining an independent sitting position. Physical immobility and physiological instability are antecedents with the following influencing factors: illness, complexity, burden, endogenous/exogenous booster. The consequences are the progression of inactivity and all related physical and psycho-social problems.