A nursing theory can be simply described as a set of definitions, ideas, interactions, and propositions based on nursing models. Such theories are also founded on other disciplines for the projection of a focused, methodical view of occurrences and experiences in nursing profession. The importance of nursing theories for the nursing field cannot be underestimated as they continue to influence the education, practice, training, and personal and professional development of nurses. The utilization of theory and theory-based evidence allows nurses to work towards quality care improvement by structuring their practice accordingly (Alligood, 2014). Furthermore, they are able to “sort patient data quickly, decide on appropriate nursing action, deliver care, and evaluate outcomes” (Alligood, 2014).
It is particularly essential to understand nursing theory as they inflict a profound impact on everyday patient care and desired outcomes. With the persistent evolution of nursing profession, it is absolutely significant to guide nurses to successfully maneuver through their practice. Nursing theories facilitate in making this noble profession a simple one. With the acquisition of higher education in the contemporary times, more nurses are required to understand the essence of nursing theory and its essence. Recognition and comprehension of nursing theory is also helpful in making nurses define their function in the healthcare setting (Colley, 2003).
It is required of future nurse theorists to not forget their discipline’s historical significance and apply the nursing theories for the improvement of the consistently-evolving healthcare industry. Nurse theories will continue to help nurses in the utilization of their analytical, communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. Therefore, nursing theories need to be understood with an open mind.
References
Alligood, M. R. (2014). Nursing theorists and their work (8th ed.). St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby/Elsevier.
Colley, S. (2003). Nursing theory: Its importance to practice [Abstract]. Nursing Standard, 17(46), 33-37. Retrieved February 24, 2016, from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12961951
