Objective To analyze the development of continuity of care as well as its application, attributes, cases, antecedents and consequences through literature review, thus clarifying the concept of continuity of care in China from the perspective of nursing practice. Methods Literature on continuity of care published from 2009 to 2019 were retrieved from CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, CBM, PubMed, CINAHL, Embase and PsycINFO. Walker and Avant′s concept analysis method was used to analyze the connotation. Results By analyzing the relevant literature and combining the characteristics of the new situation of nursing development in China, the concept attributes of continuity of care in China were summarized as follows:patients with different healthcare places or different levels of care; providing continuity, coordination and integrated care; the purpose is to maintain the health of the patient or to meet their health needs; the continuation of information, relationship and management exists. Conclusion The definition, combined with the characteristics of nursing development under the new situation, can provide a clear conceptual support for the practice or research of continuity of care service in China, and provide theoretical and practical guidance for all levels of hospitals and communities.