Identify an outcome of nursing practice in your area of practice that can be improved. For example, if you work in home health, you may identify that throw rug use by fall risk patients is too prevalent
Identify an outcome of nursing practice in your area of practice
Summary: A theory can be used to guide practice. This assignment is an exercise in supporting a clinical practice with theory and evidence.
Directions: Identify an outcome of nursing practice in your area of practice that can be improved. For example, if you work in home health, you may identify that throw rug use by fall risk patients is too prevalent. You may be able to use the problem that inspired the theory concepts that you developed in week two.
Briefly support why it is a problem with evidence from the literature. This is not the major focus of the assignment so do not elaborate.
Create a clinical nursing (not medical) theory in the form Concept A | Proposition | Concept B. Think of the structure like two nouns and a verb. While the term proposition is much more complex in the dictionary, in our use it is the connecting term between the two concepts. Examples include Concept A improves Concept B, Concept A is related to Concept B, when Concept A increases then Concept B also increases, etc. When you get to research, you will explore this further as you develop independent and dependent variables. How to use these statistically will come in research and statistics courses.
This clinical theory is identified as an empirical theory when you get to the C-T-E model later in this course. It is empirical in that they can be measured.
Identify and define your concepts. Identify how they could be measured in a research study. Be careful that you do not use compound concepts. If you find the words “and” or “or” in your theory, you are probably too complex.
If you research your question and seek funding, you will need a theoretical model to guide the research. In our assignment, we are using Watson. You will identify the concepts in Watson’s theories that are represented by the concepts you are using in your clinical theory. Match the proposition in her theory with your proposition. To help, the 10 Caritas Processes are Concept A. Choose the one that matches your concept. To clarify, let’s look at Caritas 1 Embrace and use it in middle-range theory. Sustaining humanistic-altruistic values by the practice of loving-kindness, compassion, and equanimity with self/others (Concept A – Very complex and abstract) improves (Proposition) subjective inner healing (Concept B).
Remember that the paper is not about the problem. It is about constructing a clinical theory and matching it to a middle-range theory and conceptual model your clinical theory represents.
Conclude the paper with your discoveries made in your readings and the impact on the nursing profession of your discoveries. Explore, briefly, discovered questions that require further research. Summarize the paper in the conclusion.
Present your outcome in an APA formatted paper that meets the University’s standards for a written assignment.
Expectations
- Due: Monday, 11:59 pm PT
- Length: 5 to 7 pages including title and reference pages
- References: 3 to 10. There should be enough to support the links between the concepts of the problem and the concepts of Watson’s Theory of Caring.
Expert Answer and Explanation
Application of Concepts from Caring Science
Nursing theories are critical components of the healthcare sector and can be used to shape the nature of care. Different nursing theories can be used to help shape the nursing profession (Butts & Rich, 2022). The use of the theories is critical in any situation and their application makes the difference between success and failure. This paper will focus on a nursing issue and develop a theory that can be used to help address the issue. The paper will also address the correlation of the created theory with the Jean Watson theory of human caring.
Problem Identification
The clinical situation that this paper will focus on is the issue of patient falls among elderly patients and the role of nurses in reducing the issue (Alshammari et al., 2018). The issue of patient falls in the healthcare sector is a critical issue affecting a wide number of people. The elderly population often visit healthcare facilities to seek medication, consultation, and checkups due to the nature of their age. One of the main determinants of health is the issue of age (Grillo et al., 2019).
In this regard, as a person gets old, they begin to experience weaknesses in various organs and functional fatigue. For instance, the majority of the elderly population may experience weakness of joints and frail bones which leads to general weakness and fatigue. As a consequence, they are easily susceptible to falls and injuries. The problem is a key issue and there is a need for an efficient intervention to help address the issue. The use of theories that can guide the nursing profession to make informed decisions is key (Alshammari et al., 2018).
Creation of the Theory
Clinical theories are essential to ensuring that care providers adhere to a specific set of rules and regulations. The format of clinical nursing theories takes the form of the initial Concept A followed by a proposition and then a final Concept B. in retrospect, Concept A provides and cause while Concept B offers the effect and the proposition ties the two concepts into a single entity that forms the theory (Butts & Rich, 2022).
The issue of patient falls can be a major concern to the entire healthcare sector since it affects both the healthcare facility and the patient in equal measure. Patients might be faced with injuries and even death while the facility will be forced to incur costs if it is determined that they were negligent in ensuring patient safety.
The proposed theory that can be used to address the issue can be, “adherence to professional duty (Concept A) can lead to (Propositions) better patient outcome and quality of care (Concept B).” The proposed theory can be called the Theory of Professional Duty since it focuses on the correlation between good practice and the quality of the outcome.
Patient falls are a major issue in the healthcare sector and form one of the healthcare quality issues. The quality of patient outcomes can be undermined by falls which might lead to reduced patient satisfaction. The theory address how professional duty demonstrated with the role that nurses can play in caring for the patients goes a long way in mitigating the issues of patient falls as a quality issue.
Measuring the Concept
The theory of professional duty can be measured and evaluated to analyze whether it is effective and can help address the issue of patient falls. Concept A of the theory identifies the element of professional duties (Butts & Rich, 2022). Nurses are professional individuals and as such, have a role to play in the healthcare sector.
As a nurse, one of the duties is to ensure that the needs of the patient are addressed and also offer bedside care. Nurses can conduct actions like doing rounds and engaging in patient education. These duties are some of the interventions that nurses can take to help address the issue and improve the outcome of care. The duties of the nurse can then be measured based on the effect it has on the patients.
Concept B of the theory focuses on the effect which includes the rate of patient outcome and overall quality of care (Butts & Rich, 2022). The correlation indicated that when the nurses conduct that which is required of them, they can deliver a good quality outcome. However, discrepancies in the outcome can help measure the efficiency of the nurses in conducting their tasks.
While there are other variables to be included, the model can be used to help measure how the intervention put in place by the nurse can be used to improve the quality of care and ultimately reduced the number of patient falls (Butts & Rich, 2022). Patient education as an effect can help improve patient awareness on the risk factors associated with patient falls and how to avoid them altogether.
Correlation with Watson’s Theory
The created theory of Professional Duty can be correlated with Watson’s theory in different forms. In my theory, the main focus is on the roles and responsibilities of a nurse in ensuring quality while Watson focuses on how nurses can embrace human caring (Watson, 2022). My theory related to Watson based on Caritas 6 which denotes that efficient patient outcomes can be attained through “Engaging in transpersonal teaching and learning within the context of a caring relationship; staying within other’s frame of reference-shift toward coaching model for expanded health/wellness” (Watson, 2022).
Caritas 6 contends that when a nurse makes it an initiative to engage with the patients through educational strategies and a caring relationship, there is a high chance that the outcome would be expanded wellness. In the created theory of professional duty, nurses can perceive their interaction with patients through education and caring relationship as a form of engagement (Watson, 2022). The resultant outcome would then be observed through a steady reduction in the rate of patient falls.
The two theories make use of Caritas 6 to depict the need for a better patient outcome. Nurses have a duty and role to play in the healthcare sector and efficient implementation would yield the desired results. Caritas provides specific strategies that the care providers can use to implement the strategy (Watson, 2022). The theories advocate for efficient nursing processes that can be used to improve the nature in which healthcare professionals ensure efficiency.
Conclusion
This paper focused on a nursing issue and develop a theory that can be used to help address the issue. The paper also addressed the correlation of the created theory with the Jean Watson theory of human caring. The created theory was referred to as the theory of professional Duty and it stated that “adherence to professional duty (Concept A) can lead to (Propositions) better patient outcome and quality of care (Concept B).
” The theory that was created was aimed at addressing the issue of patient falls in the healthcare sector. The theory correlates with Jean Watson’s theory of human caring through Caritas 6 which emphasizes the engagement between nurses and patients to improve quality outcomes.
References
Alshammari, S. A., Alhassan, A. M., Aldawsari, M. A., Bazuhair, F. O., Alotaibi, F. K., Aldakhil, A. A., & Abdulfattah, F. W. (2018). Falls among elderly and its relation with their health problems and surrounding environmental factors in Riyadh. Journal of family & community medicine, 25(1), 29.
Butts, J. B., & Rich, K. L. (2022). Philosophies and theories for Advanced Nursing Practice. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Watson, J. (2022). Watson’s Caring Science & Theory. Watson Caring Science Institute. https://www.watsoncaringscience.org/jean-bio/caring-science-theory/#10cp
Grillo, D. M., Firth, K. H., & Hatchel, K. (2019). Implementation of purposeful hourly rounds in addition to a fall bundle to prevent inpatient falls on a medical-surgical acute hospital unit. Medsurg Nursing, 28(4), 243-250.
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What areas of nursing practice need improvement?
As with any profession, there are always areas in nursing practice that could benefit from improvement. In order to provide high-quality patient care and ensure patient safety, it is important to identify these areas and work towards improvement.
One area that needs improvement in nursing practice is communication. Effective communication is crucial in healthcare, as it can impact patient outcomes and prevent medical errors. Nurses need to communicate clearly and effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal. Improving communication skills through training and education can lead to better patient care and outcomes.
Another area that needs improvement is the use of technology in nursing practice. While technology has improved many aspects of patient care, there are still challenges and limitations that need to be addressed. Nurses need to be proficient in using electronic health records (EHRs) and other technology to document patient care and communicate with other healthcare professionals. Improving training and support for nurses in using technology can lead to more efficient and effective patient care.
Patient education is another area that needs improvement in nursing practice. Nurses play an important role in educating patients about their health, medications, and treatments. However, patients may not always understand the information provided or may not have the skills or resources to follow through with recommended treatments. Improving patient education through the use of plain language, visual aids, and tailored educational materials can help patients better understand and manage their health.
Finally, nursing practice needs improvement in the area of cultural competence. Nurses need to be able to provide care that is sensitive to the diverse cultural and linguistic needs of patients. This includes understanding and respecting cultural beliefs and practices, as well as being able to communicate effectively with patients who speak different languages. Improving cultural competence through education and training can lead to better patient satisfaction and outcomes.
In conclusion, there are several areas in nursing practice that need improvement, including communication, technology, patient education, and cultural competence. By identifying these areas and working towards improvement, nurses can provide better patient care and ensure patient safety.
What are some examples of best practices in nursing?
There are many examples of best practices in nursing, which are strategies or techniques that have been proven to be effective in improving patient outcomes and overall quality of care. Some examples of best practices in nursing include:
- Evidence-based practice: Evidence-based practice involves using the best available evidence, including research studies and clinical guidelines, to guide clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. By integrating research evidence into clinical practice, nurses can provide the most effective and up-to-date care to their patients.
- Patient-centered care: Patient-centered care involves treating patients as individuals and taking into account their unique needs, preferences, and values. This includes involving patients in their own care decisions and collaborating with them to create care plans that are tailored to their specific needs.
- Interprofessional collaboration: Collaboration among healthcare professionals, including nurses, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team, is essential for providing high-quality patient care. Interprofessional collaboration involves sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve common goals and improve patient outcomes.
- Medication safety: Medication errors are a common cause of adverse events in healthcare, and nurses play a critical role in ensuring medication safety. Best practices in medication safety include using computerized order entry systems, double-checking medications before administration, and educating patients about their medications.
- Infection prevention and control: Nurses play a key role in preventing and controlling healthcare-associated infections, such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections and central line-associated bloodstream infections. Best practices in infection prevention and control include proper hand hygiene, using sterile technique for invasive procedures, and monitoring patients for signs of infection.
- Quality improvement: Quality improvement involves continuously monitoring and evaluating patient care processes and outcomes to identify areas for improvement. By implementing evidence-based practices and monitoring patient outcomes, nurses can improve the quality and safety of care provided to their patients.
In conclusion, best practices in nursing are strategies or techniques that have been proven to be effective in improving patient outcomes and overall quality of care. Examples of best practices include evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, interprofessional collaboration, medication safety, infection prevention and control, and quality improvement.
How do you improve your practice as a nurse?
As a nurse, there are many ways to improve your practice and provide high-quality care to your patients. Some ways to improve your practice as a nurse include:
- Continuing education: Continuing education is important for nurses to stay up-to-date on the latest research, best practices, and clinical guidelines. Taking courses, attending conferences, and reading professional journals can help nurses expand their knowledge and skills.
- Reflective practice: Reflective practice involves reflecting on your own actions and experiences to improve your practice. This can involve analyzing patient interactions and identifying areas for improvement, as well as seeking feedback from colleagues and patients.
- Evidence-based practice: Evidence-based practice involves using the best available evidence to guide clinical decision-making. Staying up-to-date on the latest research and clinical guidelines can help nurses provide the most effective care to their patients.
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals: Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and other members of the healthcare team, is essential for providing high-quality patient care. Collaborating with others can help nurses gain new perspectives and identify areas for improvement in their practice.
- Using technology: Technology can be used to improve patient outcomes and streamline clinical workflows. Nurses can use electronic health records, computerized order entry systems, and other technology tools to enhance the safety and efficiency of patient care.
- Professional development: Professional development involves seeking out new opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge as a nurse. This can include pursuing advanced certifications, participating in research projects, and taking on leadership roles within your organization.
In conclusion, there are many ways for nurses to improve their practice and provide high-quality care to their patients. Continuing education, reflective practice, evidence-based practice, collaboration with other healthcare professionals, using technology, and professional development are all important strategies for improving your practice as a nurse.
How can nurses improve healthcare?
Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system, and there are many ways they can improve healthcare for patients. Some ways that nurses can improve healthcare include:
- Advocating for patients: Nurses can be strong advocates for their patients, ensuring that their needs and concerns are heard and addressed. Advocacy can involve speaking up for patients’ rights, ensuring that they receive appropriate care and treatment, and helping them navigate the healthcare system.
- Providing patient-centered care: Patient-centered care involves tailoring care to the individual needs, preferences, and values of each patient. Nurses can provide patient-centered care by listening to patients, involving them in decision-making, and addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Promoting health and wellness: Nurses can help promote health and wellness by providing education and resources to patients and communities. This can include providing information on healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and managing chronic conditions.
- Using evidence-based practice: Evidence-based practice involves using the best available evidence to guide clinical decision-making. Nurses can use evidence-based practice to provide the most effective care to their patients, ensuring that they receive treatments and interventions that are supported by research and clinical guidelines.
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals: Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, and other members of the healthcare team, is essential for providing high-quality patient care. Nurses can collaborate with others to ensure that patients receive coordinated, comprehensive care.
- Embracing technology: Technology can be used to improve patient outcomes and streamline clinical workflows. Nurses can use electronic health records, telehealth, and other technology tools to enhance the safety and efficiency of patient care.