A nurse working in a rehabilitation unit wishes to use nursing theory to guide a personal concept of practice but has become frustrated when the chosen theory does not seem to be helpful. The nurse consults an expert on theory

Question

What statement by the theory expert would best help the nurse choose a theory from which to work?
a. "Any theory should work fine for you as long as you understand the concepts."
b. "Choose a theory that has clear explanations of all four key concepts."
c. "Rehabilitation nursing is probably too broad to find an appropriate theory."
d. "Since you work in a specialized area, use a theory that is very specific."

Answer 1

D
Types of patients, setting, and practice should influence the theory chosen to guide practice. A specific setting is best served by a theory with specificity in its components. A global theory would be better suited for research and knowledge generation.
Not all theories fit all circumstances, and in fact, many of the theories in this chapter are too broad to be used in their entirety.
It is valid to suggest a theory that has clear explanations of all four key concepts; however, it does not go far enough in giving the nurse direction in choosing a theory.
Nursing theory can guide practice in any setting; the key is finding a theory that fits.