Differences Between the Nursing Theory and Philosophies
Regardless of the fact that a direct correlation exists between the nursing theory and philosophies of nursing, and these terms are frequently interchangeable, there are differences between them. Thus, the nursing theory, or model, may be defined as a particular framework that aims to guide health care delivery. Multiple nursing theories identify the nurse’s role, define the principles of nursing practice, and explain nursing processes related to them. A considerable number of nursing models were created and developed on the basis of nurses’ observations, and they subsequently were supported by scholarly evidence. Those theories that were accepted as legitimate are currently taught to students as standard health care procedures.
In turn, philosophies of nursing differ from theories by being individual. Any nursing philosophy “describes system of nurse’s belief and perspectives about profession in nursing practice, scholarship and research at clinic, family and community setting” (Tuyen, 2018, p. 1). Health care providers form their philosophies based on daily practice to explain their roles as nurses, the purpose of nursing, and the nature of ethical communication between nurses and patients. Philosophies are frequently impacted by nursing theories applied in particular situations, while nurses’ individual beliefs may establish the nursing model as well.
Impact of the Nursing Theory on Practice
As previously mentioned, the nursing theory defines how nursing practice will be provided. It provides the foundation of practice essential for appropriate health care delivery. In addition, the nursing theory provides the basis for the evaluation of health care delivery for its subsequent improvement for better patient outcomes. In addition, “nursing theory-guided practice helps improve the quality of nursing care because it allows nurses to articulate what they do for patients and why they do it” (Younas & Quennell, 2019, p. 540). In this case, the nursing theory helps health care specialists improve communication with patients and build solid relationships on the basis of mutual respect and trust.
References
Tuyen, L. T. T. (2018). Toward an understanding of nursing knowledge development. Belitung Nursing Journal, 4(1), 1-7. Web.
Younas, A., & Quennell, S. (2019). Usefulness of nursing theory-guided practice: An integrative review. Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, 33(3), 540-555. Web.