Nursing Theories: The Base for Professional Nursing Practice - Essay Example

"Nursing Theories: The Base for Professional Nursing Practice" is a great example of a paper on care.  The nursing practice encompasses different items of study. Various theorists have made different meaningful contributions towards theory-driven, evidence-based practices in the nursing field. This type of practice has been developed in the profession with an aim to improve the quality and the effectiveness of health promotion. Empirical evidence is said to be insufficient in the formulation of explanatory and predictor capability as depicted by most research programs and evaluations (Walker & Avant, 2011). Most research theorists argue for theory-driven evidence-based practices in the nursing profession especially with regard to an increased evaluation in the field by the relevant authorities and the nature of the evidence that is given and the assessment of effectiveness.

The World Health Organization gives recommendations on the use of an evidence-based approach to policy and practice with the use of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies whose major focus is on the measurement of effectiveness. Most theorists argue that the use of empirical evidence by practitioners is of no value if it lacks general principles of application. Various authors have supported that theoretical evidence can be used to identify many potential outcomes in research with the basis of selecting the most relevant. They also point out that this framework provides for rearrangement to form chains of events based on the anticipated time sequence which would not be possible without it. However, without evidence-based practice, these outcomes may be irrelevant, vague, and not easily conceptualized or believed by the users.

Theory-driven, the evidence-based practice should be integrated into the designing of health promotion programs and the relevant evaluation strategies. These types of practices give systematic reviews that recognize the importance of program design based on the theoretical principle that is strong as well as takes into account the contextual factors and the process. The nursing practice requires a strong evidence base. Theorists have stipulated that if this is derived from evidence of effectiveness alone, then the practice lacks a rational base. What is relevant, however, are the general principles combined with a good understanding of the specific factors which provide for adaptations that suit various incidences (Walker & Avant, 2011). Most of the theorist's arguments are centered on the same sentiments that theory- driven, evidence- based practices in the nursing field are important and enhance effectiveness, provide quality work, reduce the cost involved, and even provide work that is clearly evidenced and with base.

DQ 2

Most conceptual models are used to illustrate the research questions under analysis or practice that are related to a particular public health problem. These models deal not with wide behavioral classes but only with specific types of characters and in specific contexts usually informed by more than one theory and empirical findings. The conceptual models also narrow the target and the research questions as well as serve as a good foundation of a given set of activities (George, 2011). Thirdly, the models and theories provide graphical representations of variables in the interrelations available. They also use to communicate among the users, provide information on the topic being analyzed, and identify the variables of an activity that require further evaluation.

Other applications of theories and models to nursing practice related to linking the problem, interventions, and outcomes together through a standardization system. They provide the best evidence from the analysis of the evidence provided. Most of the models and theories are applicable in designing practice change that is desired as well as in implementing, evaluating, integrating, and maintaining the change (George, 2011). These changes that are desired may range from strategies to educate and mentor nurses, the building of systems to recognize patients, early identification of problems, and timely management of changes in patients’ status.

 

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