The profession of a nurse requires specialists to possess certain knowledge to direct their practice. Nursing knowledge has developed through several eras since the 1900s and is now characterized by the theory utilization era (Alligood, 2014). In the current period, nurses are meant to use philosophies, models, and theories for theory-based practice, with nursing frameworks being the knowledge for quality care (Alligood, 2014). The theory is important for the professional discipline, as nursing theoretical works guide reasoning and decision-making and propose specific outcomes (Alligood, 2014). For instance, the Theory of the Person as an Adaptive System is quite focused and can navigate a nurse’s approach and mindset (Alligood, 2014). Nursing theories provide fundamental nursing information, joining knowledge and action (Alligood, 2014). Nursing professionals need theory-based knowledge that is critical in achieving outcomes in nursing practice.
Furthermore, Virginia Henderson suggests an issue related to applying theory in practice. Her Nursing Need Theory focused on the significance of increasing patient independence, and Henderson highlighted basic human needs as the priority of nursing practice. However, such emphasis indicated a lack of theory regarding patient needs and how nurses can meet those needs. Henderson proposed good health is a challenge affected by various factors, including age and cultural background. One should remember that Henderson was an early theorist, and in the beginning, a recognition emerged that theory from different disciplines was specific to those disciplines and not nursing (Alligood, 2014). As Henderson prioritized patient needs, her perspective has led to further theory development.
Reference
Alligood, M. R. (2014). Nursing theory: Utilization & application (5th ed.). Mosby.