B.

Definition &
Scope (General
Concepts)
Theoretical Foundation in Nursing
Prof Eric G. Villa
Objective
• Be able to:
1. Comprehend the Basic Definition & Concepts in Nursing Theory.
2. Enumerate and discuss the scopes of Nursing theory
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory

• Nursing theory refers to the framework of principles,

concepts, and assumptions that guide the practice of nursing.
• It helps nurses understand their role, improve patient care, and
contribute to the development of the nursing profession.
• Nursing theories can differ in their focus, scope, and level of
abstraction.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Nursing theory refers to the framework of principles, concepts, and assumptions that
guide the practice of nursing.

Principles in nursing refer to fundamental beliefs or values that

guide nursing practice and decision-making.
They provide a foundation for ethical conduct, professional
standards, and the overall philosophy of nursing.
These principles guide nurses in their interactions with patients,
families, colleagues, and the broader healthcare system,
ensuring ethical and professional practice.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory

• Nursing theory refers to the framework of principles,

concepts, and assumptions that guide the practice of nursing.
• It helps nurses understand their role, improve patient care, and
contribute to the development of the nursing profession.
• Nursing theories can differ in their focus, scope, and level of
abstraction.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Principles in Nursing
Examples:
a. Framework in Principles of Ethics autonomy, beneficence, Nonmaleficence, justice
b. Roy’s Adaptation Model Principle The human being is a biopsychosocial adaptive system
c. Neuman’s System Model Principle. prevention or reduction of potential stressors.
The nursing focus is the

d. Principle in Pender’s Health Promotion Model

Individuals seek to actively engage in behaviors that promote optimal health.

e. Principle in Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory

Individuals have the ability and responsibility to engage in self-care activities to maintain their health

f. Watson’s Theory of Human-Caring Principle

Caring is essential to the practice of nursing and has a healing effect on individuals
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in nursing are the building
blocks of nursing theory and provide a way
to describe, understand, and explain
various aspects of nursing phenomena.
They are abstract ideas or notions that
represent specific elements within nursing
practice
Concepts provide a common language and
framework for nurses to understand and
communicate about the phenomena they
encounter in their practice.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in Nursing
Examples:
a. Concept of Caring
b. Concepts of Health
c. Concept of Environment
d. Concept of Adaptation
e. Concept of Nursing
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in Nursing
Examples:
a. Concept of Caring Caring is a central nursing concept that
b. Concepts of Health encompasses the compassionate,
c. Concept of Environment empathetic, and therapeutic relationships
nurses develop with their patients to
d. Concept of Adaptation promote healing and well-being.
e. Concept of Nursing
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in Nursing
Examples:
a. Concept of Caring
Health: Healthis a multidimensional concept
b. Concepts of Health that extends beyond the absence of
c. Concept of Environment disease. It encompasses physical, mental,
social, and spiritual well-being, and varies
d. Concept of Adaptation from person to person.
e. Concept of Nursing
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in Nursing
Examples:
a. Concept of Caring Environment: The concept of environment in
b. Concepts of Health nursing recognizes that the physical, social,
cultural, and organizational contexts
c. Concept of Environment
influence the health and care of individuals
d. Concept of Adaptation and communities.
e. Concept of Nursing
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in Nursing
Examples:
a. Concept of Caring Adaptation refers to the process by which
b. Concepts of Health individuals respond and adjust to changes
in their internal and external environments.
c. Concept of Environment
It is a key concept in many nursing
d. Concept of Adaptation theories, such as the Roy Adaptation
e. Concept of Nursing Model.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Concepts in Nursing
Examples: person, environment, health, and
a. Concept of Caring nursing. These four are collectively referred to
as metaparadigm for nursing and
b. Concepts of Health provides a framework for reflection,
c. Concept of Environment observation, and interpretation of
phenomena and, specifically, it provides
d. Concept of Adaptation guidelines and guidance for aspects of clinical
e. Concept of Nursing practice
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Assumptions in nursing are underlying beliefs or
propositions that are considered to be true, but do not
necessarily require evidence or proof.
These assumptions serve as foundational beliefs and help shape
nursing theories and practice.
Assumptions provide a starting point or framework upon which
nursing theories and practices are built, and they shape nurses'
perspectives and understanding of the nature of nursing.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Assumptions in Nursing
Examples;
a. The assumption that humans are holistic beings with physical,
psychological, sociocultural, and spiritual dimensions that influence their
health and well-being.
b. The assumption that nursing interventions and healthcare can positively
impact individuals, families, and communities by promoting health,
preventing illness, and facilitating healing.
c. The assumption that nursing is a unique and distinct profession,
grounded in both science and art, requiring specialized knowledge, skills,
and ethics
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Other Definitions: NT
1. Imogene King (1981):
""Nursing theory is a formal and systematic exposition of the distinctive outlook
and aspect of nursing phenomena.“
King emphasizes that nursing theories provide a structured and organized representation of
the unique perspective and aspects of nursing

The theory of Goal Attainment focuses on the dynamic, interpersonal process of nurses
and patients working together to achieve mutually agreed-upon goals.

Reference: King, I. M. (1981). A theory of nursing systems, concepts, and models. Journal of Nursing
Administration, 11(10), 4-5.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
The theory proposes that nurses and patients interact in three
systems: personal, interpersonal, and social systems. The
personal system refers to the individual patient, the interpersonal
system focuses on the nurse-patient relationship, and the social
system includes the broader social influences that impact the
patient's health.
Ex: a nurse using the theory to understand the distinctive
perspective of nursing and apply it in practice: a nurse might
assess a patient's needs, develop a goal together with the
patient, and provide interventions to help the patient achieve
that goal.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Other Definitions: NT
2. Jean Watson (2012):
"Nursing theory is a conceptualization of some aspect of nursing
reality that enables individual nurses or groups of nurses to organize
their thinking about nursing and nursing practice."

Her theory, known as the Theory of Human Caring, focuses on the

importance of the nurse-patient relationship and the significance of
caring in nursing practice

Reference: Watson, J. (2012). Human caring science: A theory of nursing. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
• Human Caring Theory: theory would involve a nurse using
nursing theory to guide their thinking and approach to care.
• For instance, a nurse might use Watson's theory to underscore
the significance of providing compassionate, holistic care to
patients.
• The nurse's understanding of some aspect of nursing reality, as
conceptualized by Watson's theory, aids in organizing their
thinking and influences their practice to prioritize the human-to-
human connection and the importance of caring in nursing.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Other Definitions: NT

3. Martha Rogers (1970):

"Nursing theory is an organized framework of concepts and purposes designed to
guide the practice of nursing.“

highlights the purpose and structure of nursing theories, which provide a structured
framework for understanding and guiding nursing practice.

Science of Unitary Human Beings Theory focuses on the interconnectedness and

inseparability of human beings and their environment. It emphasizes the concept of human
beings as integral energy fields that extend beyond physical boundaries.
Reference: Rogers, M. E. (1970). An introduction to the theoretical basis of nursing. F. A. Davis Company.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
• For instance, a nurse might apply Rogers' theory by recognizing
the holistic interconnectedness of the patient and their
environment.
• This understanding informs their assessment and interventions,
addressing not only the physical needs of the patient but also
the patient's emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
• By using the organized framework of concepts provided by Rogers'
theory, the nurse can guide their practice in a manner that aligns with
the theory's understanding of nursing's purpose and the
interconnectedness of human beings.
Definition and Scope of
Nursing Theory
• CATEGORIES IN DEFINING NURSING THEORIES: It's important to note that these
categories are not mutually exclusive, and many nursing theories can span
across multiple categories or not fixed and can vary depending on the
perspective and classification used by different nursing theorists.

1. Grand Nursing Theories: These theories are broad in scope and provide a
theoretical framework for the entire nursing profession. They address
fundamental concepts and principles that guide nursing practice and education.
Examples include Roy's Adaptation Model and Orem's Self-Care Deficit Theory.

Basic Assumption: Grand nursing theories assume that a person's needs and
responses to the environment influence health and that nurses play a vital role
in facilitating adaptation and promoting wellness.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
• CATEGORIES IN DEFINING NURSING
THEORIES

2. Middle-Range Nursing Theories:

These theories are more specific and
address a narrower aspect of nursing
practice or a particular population. They
provide guidance for specific nursing
interventions and focus on specific
phenomena or concepts. An example is
Kolcaba's Comfort Theory.
Basic Assumption: Middle-range nursing
theories assume that nursing
interventions aimed at specific
phenomena can improve patient
outcomes and well-being.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
• CATEGORIES IN DEFINING NURSING THEORIES

3. Practice Nursing Theories: These

theories are specific to a particular
clinical setting or nursing practice area.
They guide nursing interventions and
decision-making within a defined practice
context. Examples include Peplau's
Interpersonal Relations Theory and
Leininger's Cultural Care Theory.

Basic Assumption: Practice nursing theories

assume that patient care can be improved
through knowledge of interpersonal
relationships, cultural diversity, and other
contextual factors.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
• CATEGORIES IN DEFINING NURSING THEORIES

4. Descriptive Nursing Theories: These theories

focus on describing nursing phenomena,
characteristics, and processes. They aim to
provide a clear understanding of the nature of
nursing and the experiences of patients and families.
Examples include Peplau's Theory of Interpersonal
Relations and Parse's Human Becoming Theory.

Basic Assumption: Descriptive nursing theories

assume that nursing practice and care can be better
understood and improved through the systematic
description and exploration of nursing phenomena.
Definition and Scope of
Nursing Theory
CATEGORIES IN DEFINING NURSING THEORIES

• 5. Prescriptive Nursing Theories: These theories provide specific

guidelines and interventions for nursing practice. They offer
practical frameworks for nurses to follow in order to promote
optimal patient care outcomes. Examples include Neuman's Systems
Model and Pender's Health Promotion Model.

• Basic Assumption: Prescriptive nursing theories assume that

specific nursing interventions and actions can positively influence
health outcomes in individuals, families, and communities.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
✓nursing theories have a broad scope,
encompassing various aspects of nursing
practice, education, research, and
professional development.

✓They serve as a foundation for

understanding, guiding, and improving the
quality of nursing care and its impact on
patient outcomes.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
SCOPE of NURSING THEORY
1. Understanding the Nature of Nursing: Nursing theories help
in defining and understanding the unique nature and essence
of nursing as a discipline. They explore the underlying values,
knowledge, and skills of nursing and provide a foundation for the
development of nursing as a distinct profession.

2. Guiding Nursing Practice: Nursing theories guide the

practice of nurses by providing frameworks, concepts, and
principles that support decision-making and the delivery of
effective patient care. They offer evidence-based approaches to assess,
diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate nursing interventions.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
SCOPE of NURSING THEORY
3. Promoting Patient Care and Outcomes: Nursing theories focus
on promoting optimal patient outcomes by addressing various aspects
of care, such as physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs.
They provide guidance for holistic and patient-centered care, considering the
individuality and uniqueness of each patient.

4. Tailoring Interventions to Different Populations: Nursing

theories recognize the diversity of patient populations and the need to
tailor care according to their specific needs.
They offer frameworks for understanding and addressing the healthcare needs
of different age groups, cultural backgrounds, and vulnerable populations.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
SCOPE of NURSING THEORY
5. Enhancing Nursing Education and Research: Nursing theories
provide a theoretical basis for nursing education and research. They
inform curriculum development, teaching strategies, and research
methodologies in nursing programs. They also encourage the
generation of new knowledge and advance the scientific foundation of
nursing.
6. Contributing to the Professional Development of Nurses:
Nursing theories support the professional growth and development of
nurses by providing a framework for reflection, self-evaluation, and
continuous learning. They guide nurses in understanding their role,
expanding their knowledge base, and contributing to the advancement
of the nursing profession.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
SCOPE of NURSING THEORY
5. Enhancing Nursing Education and Research: Nursing theories
provide a theoretical basis for nursing education and research. They
inform curriculum development, teaching strategies, and research methodologies in nursing
programs. They also encourage the generation of new knowledge and advance the
scientific foundation of nursing.

6. Contributing to the Professional Development of Nurses:

Nursing theories support the professional growth and development of
nurses by providing a framework for reflection, self-evaluation, and
continuous learning. They guide nurses in understanding their role, expanding their
knowledge base, and contributing to the advancement of the nursing profession.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
7. Informing Nursing Leadership and Management: Nursing
theories provide a basis for leadership and management in
nursing. They offer guidance on how to effectively lead and manage nursing teams,
promote effective communication, make informed decisions, and create a positive work
environment.

8. Shaping Nursing Policy and Advocacy: Nursing theories

inform and shape healthcare policy and advocacy efforts. They
provide a theoretical framework for understanding the needs of patients and the broader
healthcare system and help nurses advocate for policy changes that improve patient
outcomes and promote the nursing profession.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
9. Driving Evidence-Based Practice: Nursing theories
contribute to evidence-based practice by providing a theoretical
foundation for generating and applying evidence in nursing. They
guide nurses in critically appraising research evidence, integrating it with clinical
expertise and patient preferences, and implementing evidence-based interventions
to improve patient care.

10. Facilitating Interprofessional Collaboration: Nursing

theories play a role in promoting collaboration and teamwork
among healthcare professionals. They provide a common language and
understanding of nursing concepts, roles, and responsibilities, helping to foster effective
communication and collaboration with other healthcare disciplines.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
11. Influencing Healthcare Delivery and Systems: Nursing
theories have the potential to influence healthcare delivery and
systems. They contribute to the development and implementation of nursing models of
care, care delivery frameworks, and the integration of nursing into healthcare systems,
ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and the overall quality of care.
Definition and Scope of Nursing Theory
Assignment:
Read about the Importance of Nursing Theories, What are the
characteristics of Nursing Theories, and the barriers of Nursing
theories.