Nursing Theory ch.5 Theoretical Foundation of nursing practice

Concept

A mental formulation of objects or events representing the basic way in which ideas are organized and communicated.

Conceptualization

The process of formulating concepts, such as framing behavioral patterns as anxiety related.

Operational Definition

A description of concepts that can be applied to decision making in practice, linking concepts with other concepts and theories.

Theory

A purposeful set of assumptions or propositions about concepts; shows relationships between concepts to explain, predict, or prescribe phenomena.

Assumption

A description of concepts that are accepted as factual; includes ideas about the nature and purpose of concepts.

Phenomenon

An aspect of reality that can be consciously sensed or experienced, often represented by nursing concepts and theories.

Theoretical Model

A mental representation of how things work, analogous to an architect’s plan for a building.

Conceptual Framework

The theoretical structure that links concepts together for a specific purpose, guiding nursing decisions.

Nursing Process

The systematic approach in nursing comprising Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Intervention, and Evaluation.

Types of Theory

Categories of theory including Grand, Middle-range, Descriptive, and Prescriptive theories.

Metaparadigm Concepts

Fundamental concepts in nursing including Person, Nursing, Health, and Environment/situation.

Practice-based Theories

Theories such as Florence Nightingale's and The McGill Model that focus on nursing in practical contexts.

Self Care Theory

Dorothea Orem's theory emphasizing the patient's responsibility in meeting universal self-care requisites.

Interaction Theory

A theoretical framework focusing on human interactions within environments and healthcare systems, as proposed by theorists like Hildegard Peplau.

Systems Theory

A holistic view of individuals as systems interacting with their environment, emphasizing the connections within components.

Simultaneity Theories

Theories that view individuals as irreducible wholes, considering the totality of a person, as seen in the works of Martha Rogers.

Human Becoming Theory

Rosemarie Parse's view of individuals as unitary beings in a continuous process of making choices regarding their health.

Transpersonal Caring

Jean Watson's perspective of nursing as a caring process that encompasses the totality of mind, body, and spirit.

The Link Between Theory and Knowledge Development

Theories provide direction for nursing research and contribute to the nursing knowledge base.

Relationship of Theory to Nursing Practice

Theories generate nursing knowledge, guide use of the nursing process, and are adaptable to various care settings.

Theorizing in the Future

Encourages critical thinking and broad understanding of nursing science and practice.