I'm a little lost (maybe a lot lost)

Nursing Students NP Students

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I'm in my first semester of NP school and I'm beginning a theory framework paper. I'm a little lost as I haven't written a paper of this nature before. Writing is generally my strong suit, but the terminology and rubric have me very confused. Mostly, I'm stuck on presenting the rationale for selecting this particular theory (Watson's Philosophy and Science of Caring). For this assignment, we're supposed to apply our own professional values and philosophy to the theory, and I really am not sure how to approach this. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Any and all help is appreciated.

Specializes in ICU.

Don't over think it. You simply need to evaluate and identify the values and principles supported by this theory. Then examine your OWN values and beliefs, and clearly state how they line up (or dont). It is easy to go off track, but keep it simple. Write how you use values and principles of this theory in your e Friday practice.

Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

I agree. Don't look for a magic formula. Start with truth. Why did you pick that theory? How does it relate to your professional values and philosophy? (Start by identifying your professional values and philosophy.) Start with the plain, simple truth ... back it up with sound reasoning, giving some details along the way ... and ending with a few summary statements of the plain, simple truth that is the heart of the reason you picked that theory.

agree.i too had some difficulties with writing the first few papers in grad school. it's just a different way of thinking overall.

i had a professor early on who taught me to use the following headings for most of my papers, and i'm almost done and it's worked thus far...they include:

Background/Overview/Framework

Pertinent data/ EBP

Personal experience/Professional interview

Application to my practice

Wrap up

i kind of take this approach on my papers now and may include much more of one area, less of another. obviously not EVERY area can apply to every paper, but it still works!

don't over think it. for a theory framework you are going to first discuss the theory and the background of it, when it came about, WHO developed it, WHY it was needed, and HOW it can be used in today's practice. Next, discuss WHY you chose that particular theory and HOW you can apply it in your personal practice. include some examples. Next, if you choose to, you can talk with some other nurses who might also include points from Watson in their care and talk about that. Lastly, wrap it all up. Good luck!

Specializes in ER, Telemetry, cardiac, trauma.

Hi, same poster (BS'n), different name. I got a 96 on the first part of my theory paper, just wanted to let you all know. Now I'm working on the second part, and trying to porifice out the fluff and get it down to the basic framework. Thank you all for your input. I have to remember that I'm not going for a Pulitzer here. . . :)

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