The application of science-based theories in nursing represents an opportunity for nurses to combine experience-associated knowledge with evidence developed on the basis of scientific rigor. The first science-based nursing theory was developed by Martha Rogers and is called the Science of Unitary Human Beings, emphasizing both the scientific nature of nursing as well as its humanitarian components (Ammende, 1996). One of the key components of the model is treating each person as irreducible because every individual has a unique set of characteristics that go far beyond the understanding of the workings of the human body.
According to Rogers, nursing and sciences are connected because people can influence their environments and make nursing a naturally scientific field (Malinski, 2006). In applying the theory in practice of a DNP-prepared nurse, it is possible to address burnout as Rogers underlined the importance of maintaining a culture of safety and effective patient-practitioner communication.
Watson’s nursing theory is also concerned with the interplay of scientific knowledge and nursing practice when it comes to caring for patients (Pajnkihar, Štiglic, & Vrbnjak, 2017). Watson’s nursing theory is also concerned with the interplay of scientific knowledge and nursing practice when it comes to caring for patients. According to the theory, nursing is concerned with implementing steps for preventing illness and promoting health by using a scientific approach while also demonstrating caring as a holistic aspect of nursing.
When applied to the practice of a DNP-prepared nurse, the theory encourages professionals to promote the health of patients through knowledge and intervention that is developed on the basis of scientific findings. However, to ensure the successful implementation of the interventions, the theorists recommend to develop caring relationships between nurses and their patients as well as display unconditional acceptance as methods of contributing to the high quality of care.
References
Ammende, M. (1996). Changes of nursing paradigms. Martha Rogers’ theory. Pfledge, 9(1), 5-11.
Malinski, V. (2006). Rogerian science-based nursing theories. Nursing Science Quarterly, 19(1), 7-12.
Pajnkihar, M., Štiglic, G., & Vrbnjak, D. (2017). The concept of Watson’s carative factors in nursing and their (dis)harmony with patient satisfaction. PeerJ, 5, e2940.