Opinion Article, J Nurs Patient Care Vol: 8 Issue: 3
Nursing Theories: A Roadmap to Quality Healthcare
Muqaddas Salman*
1Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
*Corresponding Author: Muqaddas Salman,
Department of Oral Medicine and
Periodontology, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
E-mail: muqaddas@pua.edu.eg
Received date: 30 August, 2023, Manuscript No. JNPC-23-117249;
Editor assigned date: 01 September, 2023, PreQC No. JNPC-23-117249 (PQ);
Reviewed date: 15 September, 2023, QC No. JNPC-23-117249;
Revised date: 22 September, 2023, Manuscript No. JNPC-23-117249 (R);
Published date: 02 October, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/2573-4571.1000045
Citation: Salman M (2023) Nursing Theories: A Roadmap to Quality Healthcare. J Nurs Patient Care 8:3.
Abstract
Nursing is both an art and a science. The art of nursing encompasses the compassionate, empathetic care that nurses provide to their patients, while the science of nursing is grounded in the use of evidence-based practices and the application of nursing theories. Nursing theories form the backbone of the profession, shaping the way nurses think, practice, and provide care.
Description
Nursing is both an art and a science. The art of nursing encompasses the compassionate, empathetic care that nurses provide to their patients, while the science of nursing is grounded in the use of evidence-based practices and the application of nursing theories. Nursing theories form the backbone of the profession, shaping the way nurses think, practice, and provide care. In this article, we will delve into the world of nursing theories, understanding their significance and impact on healthcare. Nursing theories are not mere abstract concepts; they are applied in real-life clinical situations to improve patient care. Nurses use theories to assess patients, develop care plans, implement interventions, and evaluate outcomes. For example, a nurse might use the Roy Adaptation Model to assess how a patient is coping with an illness and develop a care plan that supports the patient's adaptive responses.
Nursing theories are conceptual frameworks that guide the practice of nursing. These theories are developed by nursing scholars and experts, often based on their clinical experiences, observations, and research. They provide a systematic and organized way to understand, explain, and predict nursing actions and patient outcomes. These theories are essential for advancing the nursing profession and ensuring high-quality patient care.
The importance of nursing theories
Nursing theories help nurses understand patient needs, plan care, and make informed decisions. By providing a structured framework, these theories ensure that care is patient-centered, evidence-based, and focused on positive outcomes. Nursing theories encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They challenge nurses to think deeply about the root causes of health issues and develop innovative solutions to improve patient care. Nursing theories help standardize the nursing practice, ensuring consistency and quality of care. They provide a common language and framework for nurses to communicate and collaborate effectively. Nursing theories drive research and education in the field. They inspire new studies and research questions, as well as curriculum development in nursing schools.
Types of nursing theories
Grand nursing theories: These are broad, abstract theories that provide a comprehensive framework for understanding nursing as a whole. Examples include the self- care deficit theory by Dorothea Orem and the theory of human caring by Jean Watson.
Middle-range nursing theories: These theories are more specific and are often used to address particular nursing practice issues, such as pain management or stress reduction. The Health Promotion Model by Nola Pender is an example of a middle-range theory.
Practice theories: These theories are highly specific and are used to guide nursing practice in a particular clinical setting or for a specific patient population. They are often developed by nurses working in specialized areas.
Conclusion
Nursing theories are the foundation of nursing practice. They provide the structure, direction, and purpose for the profession. By understanding and applying nursing theories, nurses can provide holistic, patient-centered care that promotes health and well-being. The ongoing development and application of nursing theories are crucial for the advancement of the nursing profession and the delivery of high-quality healthcare to individuals and communities. Nursing theories bridge the gap between the art and science of nursing, ensuring that patients receive not only skilled care but also compassionate support.
