Imogene King

Theory name

Theory of Goal Attainment

Theory type

Grand theory

Key Concept

Nurses and patients communicate information, set goals together, and then take actions to achieve those goals. Through mutual understanding and collaboration, both the nurse and the patient participate in the care process, working together to reach health-related outcomes.

Focus

Goal setting and interaction

How the theory views the patient

Actively involved patient who interacts with others and sets goals.

How the theory views health

Constantly changing state where the person achieves goals leading to optimal functioning

How the theory views environment

Personal, interpersonal, and social factors that influence a person's ability to achieve goals.

How the theory views nursing

A reciprocal interaction where nurses help individuals achieve health goals.

Example of Goal Attainment Theory in practice

A post-stroke patient wants to regain independence in dressing. The nurse collaborates to set short-term goals (buttoning a shirt) and long-term goals (dressing without assistance), adjusting the interventions based on progress.

Goal of nursing according to Goal Attainment Theory

To assist individuals to attain, maintain, or restore their health
Framework is defined as a way of thinking about the real world of nursing

Conceptual system

• Nurses and clients interact; the outcome is transaction- sharing of values, needs, wants

• Interactive processes between nurse and client is essential element of nursing.

Theory of goal attainment 

Nurse patients communicate information, set goals together, and then take actions to achieve those goals