Help! Theoretical framework for paper

llg, PhD, RN · Feb 27, 2008

What aspect of nursing care are you focusing on? You don't choose a nursing theory based on a medical diagnosis -- you choose a theory to use based on what you hope to accomplish as a nurse. Also, the theory should be guiding your development of the project. Which theories address apects of nursing that interest you most? Which theories address aspects of nursing that relate to what you want to accomplish with that patient population?

For example: If you want to address the issue of patient compliance with dietary and exercise recommendations, you might want to look at the work of Nola Pender. That's what her topic is about -- the adoption of positive health behaviors -- not just in diabetes, but for all different aspects of health.

If you want to focus on the cultural practices of a specific population, you might want to look at Madeline Leininger's theory.

If you want a broad, over-arching theory of nursing to address multiple aspects of nursing care, I would suggest Kristen Swanson's Theory of Caring. It provides a practical way to look at caring. The Synergy Model from the ACCN is also a very practical general theory to use in most situations.

etc. etc. etc. The list goes on. Browse through all of the theories in your theory textbook and see which one appeals to you -- and is consistent with your beliefs about nursing and with your goals for working with this patient population.

kyboyrn · Feb 27, 2008

:bow:Thank you so much. I had a theory class last semester, but honestly I can't remember a whole lot about it. I'll take a look at those. Thanks!

DaisyRN, ACNP · Feb 29, 2008

one that i used a couple times through school is dorothea orem's self-care deficit nursing theory. overall, its a simple idea and applicable to nearly anyone. you should definitely check it out.

here's a link:

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa4065/is_200707/ai_n21032867/pg_1

and utilize your school's resources for journal access (ovid/medline/cinahl, etc.) and you will find oodles of info... you can even search for "orem and diabetes" or "self-care deficit and diabetes."

good luck!

kyboyrn · Mar 1, 2008

Thanks! I actually went with orem's self care deficit theory. I think that it will apply well to my paper and what I'm trying to accomplish with it. Still wish I didn't have to take some of these classes though. Can't wait until i'm actually doing clinicals and getting my feet wet seeing what I'm going to be doing. Thanks to you guys for the suggestions.