Nursing Theory Paper

Theory

According to Burns & Grove a theory is defined as a set of statements and concepts devised to explain a phenomenon, especially one that is widely accepted or repeatedly tested and can be used to predict and describe natural phenomenon. Nurses use theories in a clinical practice to explain nursing care, describe nursing care, to guide practice and to build a foundation for making clinical decisions. Nursing theories are primarily developed by nurses but other health care professionals provide input. Most nurses incorporate many theories instead of using one exclusively. Using multiple theories allow the nurse to choose the best one to fit a particular situation.

Concept

A concept describes and names an object, experience

This is used to describe things that have four right angles and four equal sides. This concept organizes information into categories.

Relational Statements A relational statement clarifies the connection that exists between two or more concepts

(Burns & Grove, 2007). For example, one relational statement might propose that higher formal education is related to a higher income. Another relational statement might propose that a higher income is related to a higher self esteem. The theory is not tested in research, however, it’s the statement of theory that is tested. When testing a theory the truth have to be determined among each relational statement. In many studies all relational statements in a theory are required to be validated. Concept Map A concept map is graphical tools developed to explain and depict relationships between concepts (Burns & Grove, 2007). The map should include main points from the literature. The concept map includes all the major concepts in a framework or theory. The map includes concepts, usually enclosed by boxes or circles of some kind, and relationships between concepts are expressed by arrows linking the concepts. Each linkage shown by an arrow is a

It can also help to manage ideas and create questions to focus on in the research. According to the text, mapping is useful in indentifying gaps in the logic of the theory and reveals incompleteness, errors, and inconsistencies (Burns & Grove,

2007).

Framework The framework is the structure that can support or hold the theory of a research study.

The framework makes the study stronger. One primary purpose is to explain the meaning, challenges and nature related to a phenomenon, so we can use the knowledge and understand to act in a more informed and effective way. Developing a framework to clearly express the logic on which the study is based is helpful to both the researcher and to readers of the published study

(Burns & Grove, 2007, p. 181). Framework has been used in quantitative studies as well as other areas such physiology and psychology.

Middle Range Theory/Practice Theory Middle range theories are closely related to research and clinical practice therefore, having a greater appeal to clinical researchers and clinicians. They are more narrow in scope than grand theories and are less abstract. In nursing, evidence based practice related to a