Taking a Look at Nursing Theory

The term nursing theory defines a specific knowledge system in the nursing profession. There are many theories ranging from practical theory to mid-term theory, and a large theory. Theory refers to a set of related concepts, definitions, and sentences that describe phenomena that can be used to interpret or predict the results. (Burnham) This theory instructs professional nurses to make clinical decisions based on evidence. It is achieved by appropriate data, organization, analysis, and the development of patient connections.

In order to understand why care theory is generally ignored in wards, it is necessary to carefully study the main criticism of nursing theory and the lack of universality in the practice of nurses. The language used by Scott (1994) pointed out that an important element of nursing theory should be accessibility and clarity. However, one of the main criticisms of nursing theory is the use of overly complex languages ​​(Kenny 1993). Traditionally, nurses are accustomed to using simple words; they always understand medical terminology but they choose to communicate with patients and other health professionals using non-technical terms (Levine 1995). The introduction of nursing theory led to the creation of a new language (Levine 1995). Importantly, the language used to develop nursing theory should be used consistently, but the terms are still unclear as each nursing theory is based on a different author's view.

The use of complex languages ​​and concepts seems to be an integral part of nursing theory. Levine (1995) noted that if it is considered that the theory of nursing can be understood, it is not classified as a good theory. Part of the confusion comes from nursing theorist's tendency to give a new theoretical meaning to the recognized phenomenon (Lundh 1988). When faced with nursing theory, nurses often spend most of their time trying to understand new concepts, often overlooking how relevant they are to practicing. If the relationship between theory and practice is clearer then that theory may not be so mysterious. Draper (1990) noted that effective nursing theory would provide words to nurses to discuss care. However, because of the large number of available theories and lack of general understanding, nurses are less likely to share common definitions and languages.