STU Nursing Theories and Advanced Nursing Practice Discussions

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 Conceptual models and theories are important to nursing practice as they guide the profession, using a scientific methodology.  These models provide a framework for the nurse’s observations of their patient’s environment and health, ultimately influencing the application of a theory and putting it into clinical practice.  The four concepts (person, environment, health, and nursing interventions) of the model are the framework for conceptual theories (Vieira et al., 2021). These theories allow the nursing profession to observe, study, deductively reason, and refine nursing interventions; unique to the profession. 

    As an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), it is important to recognize and give distinction to the profession’s contributions to the health and well-being of patients.  Nursing’s conceptual models give credence to what is unique about the practice of nursing. 

    Nursing researcher, Imogene King developed a conceptual model that theorizes the interconnectedness of the patient and their environment.  King’s theory explores the patient’s interactions with their environment and the influence that their environment has on their well-being.  The nurse is introduced into this environment in a transactional way; the nurse and patient have expectations of one another, from which goals are established and roles are defined (Butts & Rich, 2018). 

    It is critical for the APN to understand their patient’s environment to assimilate how these systems influence the choices, actions, or inactions of their patients.  A patient’s environment includes concepts such as; personal systems which include one’s learning style, self-concept, body image, personal space, and more (Butts & Rich, 2018).  The patient’s environment also includes interpersonal and social systems.  These systems include concepts on communication, social roles, stress, coping, perceptions, behaviors, values, age, power, status, and much more (Butts & Rich, 2018). 

   In order for the APN to effectively respect and honor the choices of their patients, the APN must understand what may be influencing the choices of their patients.  Many nursing conceptual models and theories attempt to offer explanations to the nurse’s observations.  Once the nurse more fully understands their patient and their environmental influences, the care delivered can be tailored to that unique patient.

   It is the professional APN who takes a scientific approach to their clinical practice by applying not just conceptual models or theories but research with critically appraised levels of evidence to their practice.  To approach one’s practice without transferring theoretical knowledge to their clinical practice widens the theory-practice gap and potentially compromises the delivery of quality healthcare.  To practice without guiding theories increases the vulnerability and exposure of the APN for outdated knowledge or unfounded practices and places the overall healthcare system at risk as well (Abdullah et al, 2022).  Evidenced-based practices (EBP) are at the core of competent care in which theory application is essential. 

   As an APN, it is an expectation that quality care will be delivered to patients.  Patients trust the APN to be current and knowledgeable.  It is the moral responsibility of the APN to be as component as possible, as patients entrust their well-being to the APN.  This is a responsibility that should be honored and deeply respected.

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 The Role of Nursing Theories and Models in Advanced Nursing Practice

           Healthcare professionals are taking on a vital role in delivering patient-centered care within advanced nursing practice and central to this is the utilization of nursing theories and conceptual models, which are essential tools for navigating the complexities of modern healthcare. Therefore, this paper explores the pivotal significance of these theories and models, thus highlighting their role in elevating patient care, championing evidence-based practices, ensuring consistency, and advancing the professional growth of advanced practice nurses.

           Firstly, nursing theories offer a structured framework for comprehending and interpreting the intricacies of patient care since they serve as guiding principles, thus assisting nurses in making well-informed decisions, crafting individualized care plans, and tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each patient. In addition, nursing theories are instrumental in organizing the wealth of nursing knowledge since they provide a well-structured foundation upon which nurses can build their understanding of patient care, thus facilitating the integration of diverse knowledge sources into a unified whole (Mudd et al.,2020). This organized knowledge enhances the capacity of nurses to deliver holistic care that encompasses the physical aspects of health and the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions.

           Nursing theories and models improve the quality and consistency of patient care by providing a systematic approach to assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating care. For instance, the Neuman Systems Model has been instrumental in reducing stress and promoting coping strategies in patients facing complex health challenges, leading to improved health outcomes. Nursing theories and models support evidence-based practice by emphasizing the integration of the latest research findings into clinical decision-making. Moreover, they guide advanced practice nurses in critically appraising and applying evidence to patient care, thus ensuring that interventions are rooted in the most up-to-date knowledge. Therefore, this evidence-based approach enhances the effectiveness and safety of healthcare delivery and promotes the best possible outcomes for patients.

           The standardization and consistency achieved by applying nursing theories and models benefit patients and healthcare organizations since it ensures that patients receive equitable and high-quality care regardless of their location or the healthcare provider they encounter. Standardized care practices not only reduce the risk of errors but also facilitate effective communication among healthcare team members, leading to improved patient safety and coordinated care delivery. Nursing theories and models emphasize holistic care, recognizing the complex healthcare needs of patients (Frisch & Rabinowitsch, 2019). By addressing not only physical health but also psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions, advanced practice nurses can provide comprehensive care that aligns with the patient’s values, beliefs, and preferences. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of the patient’s experience and encourages a more patient-centered approach to care.

           The study and application of nursing theories and models contribute significantly to the professional development of advanced practice nurses. It encourages lifelong learning and the pursuit of advanced degrees and certifications. Staying updated with evolving theories and practices equips nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the ever-changing demands of healthcare and contribute to advancing the field (Mudd et al.,2020). In essence, nursing theories and conceptual models serve as the cornerstone of advanced nursing practice. They provide guidance, structure, and a foundation for evidence-based, standardized, and holistic care while supporting the professional development of advanced practice nurses. These frameworks are not only vital to the advancement of the nursing profession. Still, they are essential in ensuring the highest quality of care for patients in the complex and dynamic healthcare landscape.