Instructions for module 3 discussion PHILOSOPHICAL & THEORETICAL, EVIDENCE-BASED RESEARCH class
Theories & Conceptual Models
Evaluate theories and conceptual models from nursing and related fields for use in advanced nursing practice.
Submission Instructions:
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources. Your initial post is worth 8 points.
To evaluate theories and conceptual models from nursing and related fields for use in advanced nursing practice, it is essential to understand their foundational aspects, their applications, and their relevance to advanced practice. Theories and conceptual models guide practice by providing a framework for understanding patient care, enhancing decision-making, and improving outcomes.
Key Nursing Theories and Models
1. Neuman’s Systems Model Betty Neuman’s Systems Model is a comprehensive conceptual framework that views patients holistically. It emphasizes the interaction between a patient’s physiological, psychological, sociocultural, developmental, and spiritual components. Neuman’s model identifies stressors that can affect the patient and uses a systematic approach to patient care, incorporating prevention as a key component. This model is beneficial in advanced nursing practice for its holistic perspective, guiding nurses in providing patient-centered care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s life.
2. Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory revolves around the concept that patients have a natural ability for self-care, and nursing is required when patients cannot fulfill these needs themselves. Orem’s model is divided into three interrelated theories: self-care, self-care deficit, and nursing systems. This theory is practical in advanced nursing practice as it emphasizes patient education and empowerment, fostering patient independence and promoting self-management of chronic conditions.
Theoretical Models from Related Fields
1. Health Belief Model (HBM) The Health Belief Model, originating from psychology, focuses on patients’ perceptions of health risks and benefits of actions. It posits that patients are likely to engage in health-promoting behaviors if they believe they are susceptible to a condition, the condition has serious consequences, taking action would reduce their susceptibility or severity, and the benefits of taking action outweigh the costs or barriers. HBM is instrumental in advanced nursing practice for designing interventions that motivate patients to adopt healthier behaviors by addressing their beliefs and attitudes towards health.
2. Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) Developed by Albert Bandura, the Social Cognitive Theory emphasizes the role of observational learning, social experiences, and reciprocal determinism in behavior change. SCT highlights the importance of self-efficacy—belief in one’s ability to execute actions required to manage prospective situations. In advanced nursing practice, SCT can be applied to develop programs that enhance patients’ self-efficacy, encouraging them to adopt and maintain healthy behaviors by leveraging social support and modeling.
Application in Advanced Nursing Practice
1. Enhancing Patient Outcomes The application of these theories and models in advanced nursing practice can significantly improve patient outcomes. For instance, Neuman’s Systems Model helps in identifying potential stressors and intervening before they affect the patient adversely. Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory empowers patients through education, thus promoting self-care and reducing hospital readmissions.
2. Developing Patient-Centered Interventions Utilizing the Health Belief Model, nurses can develop tailored interventions that address specific beliefs and barriers to change, making health education more effective. Similarly, incorporating Social Cognitive Theory can enhance patient engagement by improving self-efficacy and utilizing social support systems to reinforce positive health behaviors.
3. Informing Evidence-Based Practice Theories and models provide a structured approach to understanding and addressing health issues, guiding evidence-based practice. For example, Neuman’s and Orem’s theories can be used to structure patient assessments and care plans, ensuring that all relevant aspects of a patient’s well-being are considered and addressed systematically. The HBM and SCT can inform the design of behavior change interventions and public health campaigns, ensuring they are grounded in a solid understanding of human behavior.
Conclusion
Evaluating and integrating theories and conceptual models from nursing and related fields is crucial for advancing nursing practice. These frameworks offer valuable insights into patient care, guide the development of effective interventions, and enhance the delivery of holistic, patient-centered care. By utilizing models like Neuman’s Systems Model, Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory, Health Belief Model, and Social Cognitive Theory, advanced practice nurses can improve patient outcomes, empower patients, and promote sustained health behaviors.
References
- McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2017). Theoretical Basis for Nursing. Wolters Kluwer Health.
- Neuman, B., & Fawcett, J. (2011). The Neuman Systems Model (5th ed.). Pearson.
- Orem, D. E. (2001). Nursing: Concepts of Practice (6th ed.). Mosby.
- Glanz, K., Rimer, B. K., & Viswanath, K. (2015). Health Behavior: Theory, Research, and Practice (5th ed.). Jossey-Bass.