write a 200 word message discussion . 100 word each question. must use the information from the chapter attached. 1- discuss whether nursing is a profession or an occupation. What can current and future nurses do to enhance nursing’s standing as a profession? 2- Select one of the middle range theories derived from a grand nursing theory and one derived from a non-nursing theory. Analyze both for ease of application to research and practice.
Discussion:
1. The ongoing debate about whether nursing is a profession or an occupation stems from the varying perspectives and interpretations within the field. To fully understand this discourse, it is crucial to differentiate between the two concepts. An occupation refers to a job or work that one engages in to earn a living, whereas a profession typically involves specialized knowledge, education, and ethical standards.
Nursing, as a discipline, has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating scientific knowledge and evidence-based practice. It encompasses a wide range of skills, including critical thinking, assessment, and the ability to provide holistic care. Therefore, it can be argued that nursing is indeed a profession due to its specialized knowledge base and ethical obligations.
To enhance nursing’s standing as a profession, both current and future nurses can take several steps. Firstly, continuing education and professional development are essential to stay updated on the latest research and evidence-based practices. By actively engaging in scholarly activities, such as research and publication, nurses can contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge and demonstrate their commitment to the profession.
Furthermore, active participation and leadership in professional organizations and associations can strengthen nursing’s voice and influence in policymaking and advocacy efforts. Nurses can also work towards promoting a positive image of the profession by engaging in community service and educating the public about the role and scope of nursing practice. By demonstrating professionalism and advocating for a higher standard of care, nurses can collectively enhance nursing’s standing as a profession.
2. Middle range theories (MRTs) are derived from both grand nursing theories (GNTs) and non-nursing theories. GNTs provide a comprehensive framework, often encompassing various aspects of nursing practice, while MRTs focus on specific phenomena within nursing. One example of an MRT derived from a GNT is “Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory” by Dorothea Orem. This theory addresses the relationship between self-care and the nurse’s role in assisting individuals who are unable to meet their own self-care needs.
Orem’s theory is relatively easy to apply to both research and practice. It provides a clear framework for assessing and addressing self-care deficits, which can guide interventions and improve patient outcomes. Thus, it is beneficial to both researchers interested in investigating self-care and practitioners seeking to provide effective nursing care.
On the other hand, an example of an MRT derived from a non-nursing theory is “The Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change” by Prochaska and DiClemente. This model, initially developed in the field of psychology, has been applied to various health-related behaviors, including smoking cessation and weight management.
Although not originally designed for nursing, this theory can be easily adapted to nursing research and practice. Its stages of change framework provides a systematic approach to understanding and influencing behavior, making it useful in designing interventions for health promotion and disease prevention.
In conclusion, both the GNT-derived MRT and the non-nursing theory-based MRT analyzed here can be applied to research and practice in nursing. Whether derived from a nursing or non-nursing theory, the ease of application depends on the clarity of the theoretical framework and its compatibility with nursing concepts and phenomena. Researchers and practitioners should carefully consider the applicability and relevance of a theory when selecting it for their work, as this can significantly impact the validity and effectiveness of their endeavors.