During this program, you will complete an evidence-based practice project addressing a problem, issue, or concern in your specialty area of professional practice. Consider an area in your specialty that you believe needs improvement. Which nursing theories could you apply to this problem? Why is this the best theory? 300 words
In the field of nursing, there exist various theories that have been developed to guide and enhance nursing practice. These theories provide frameworks to address problems, issues, and concerns encountered in nursing and healthcare settings. When identifying an area in the specialty that needs improvement, it is essential to consider the application of nursing theories that align with the specific problem or concern at hand.
One nursing theory that can be applied to address the identified problem is the Theory of Self-Care by Dorothea Orem. This theory focuses on the idea that individuals have the ability and responsibility to care for themselves and maintain their health. It emphasizes the importance of self-care activities and the role of nurses in assisting individuals to meet their self-care needs.
The Theory of Self-Care can be particularly useful in addressing problems related to patient education and empowerment. For instance, if the identified area of improvement is the lack of patient adherence to medication regimens, this theory can be applied to develop interventions that promote patient understanding and engagement in their own care. By utilizing Orem’s theory, nurses can assess patients’ knowledge and skills related to medication adherence, provide education and support, and encourage patients to take an active role in managing their medications.
Another nursing theory that can be employed in addressing the identified problem is the Theory of Health Promotion by Nola Pender. This theory emphasizes the importance of understanding individual motivations and beliefs in promoting health behaviors. It focuses on empowering individuals to make positive choices and adopt healthy lifestyles.
The Theory of Health Promotion can be beneficial in addressing problems such as unhealthy lifestyle behaviors or non-compliance with recommended health screenings. For example, if the identified area that needs improvement is low rates of physical activity among patients, this theory can be applied to develop interventions that motivate and empower individuals to engage in regular exercise. By utilizing Pender’s theory, nurses can assess patients’ perceptions of physical activity, provide education on the benefits of exercise, and assist in setting achievable goals.
Furthermore, Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring is another nursing theory that can be applied to address identified problems in the specialty area. This theory emphasizes the importance of developing a caring relationship between the nurse and the patient. It focuses on the idea that caring is an essential component of nursing practice and has a positive impact on patient outcomes.
The Theory of Human Caring can be particularly useful in addressing problems related to the patient experience, such as poor patient satisfaction or low engagement in the treatment process. For example, if the identified area that needs improvement is patient dissatisfaction with the quality of care provided, this theory can be applied to develop interventions that promote person-centered and holistic care. By utilizing Watson’s theory, nurses can establish therapeutic relationships, actively listen to patients, and provide compassionate care that addresses their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
In summary, when identifying an area in the specialty that needs improvement, it is crucial to consider the application of nursing theories that align with the specific problem or concern. Orem’s Theory of Self-Care, Pender’s Theory of Health Promotion, and Watson’s Theory of Human Caring are examples of nursing theories that can be applied to address a range of problems in nursing practice. The selection of the most appropriate theory depends on the nature of the problem and the desired outcome. By utilizing these theories, nurses can enhance their practice and contribute to improving patient care and outcomes.