Objective To clarify the concept connotation of developmental care, so as to provide a reference for conducting developmental care.Methods A comprehensive search was conducted in databases such as CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinMed, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and CINAHL to identify relevant literature on developmental care.Rodgers′ evolutionary concept analysis method was employed to analyze the concept of developmental care.Results A total of 35 articles were included in the analysis.Five defining attributes of developmental care were identified: environmental optimization, accurate assessment, individual adaptation, emotional care, and family involvement.Antecedents included developmental needs, illness and treatment factors, and family factors.Consequences were categorized into impacts on neonates, families, and healthcare organizations.Conclusion The concept of developmental care is clearly defined through the analysis of its concept evolution, defining attributes, antecedents and consequences, etc.Nurses should develop targeted intervention strategies according to the concept connotation of developmental care, so as to promote the growth and development of neonates.