Introduction
I find that I have not only explored essential nursing practices but also deepened my understanding of crucial theories that underpin the profession, as I reflect on my journey through the Advanced Theoretical Perspective of Nursing class. With the three main theories covered in the class: the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (TOUS), the Theory of Pain, and Middle-Range Theories in Nursing, this self-assessment aims to correlate my learning outcomes.
Theory One: Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms
The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (TOUS) has provided me with a framework to develop individualized care plans addressing unique symptom experiences. This theory emphasizes the importance of considering multiple dimensions of symptoms, ensuring comprehensive and nuanced information about patients’ experiences (Yang & Kang, 2018). The incorporation of structured assessment tools based on TOUS aligns with the class’s emphasis on a systematic approach to symptom assessment in clinical practice.
By correlating with student learning outcomes, TOUS has improved my ability to make the development of interventions that are tailored and support plans based on symptom assessment that is also comprehensive. This aligns with the ability to make contribution to patient care plans, evidence-based practice, and the class’s focus on critical thinking.
Theory Two: Theory of Pain
A fundamental perspective on the multidimensional nature of pain and its management has been offered by the Theory of Pain in nursing. I learned to recognize that pain extends beyond the physiological realm and involves psychological and social factors from a biopsychosocial perspective. By emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care, ethical considerations, and evidence-based practice, this theory has equipped me with a holistic approach to pain assessment and management (Liehr, 2018).
In correlation with student learning outcomes, this theory has enhanced my skill set significantly. I can now effectively apply evidence-based interventions in practice, understand the ethical and cultural dimensions of pain management, and use standardized pain assessment tools.
Theory Three: Middle-Range Theories in Nursing
I gained a profound perspective on the significance of the nurse-patient relationship in promoting healing, in delving into Middle-Range Theories, such as Hildegard Peplau’s Interpersonal Nursing Theory. The understanding of the intricate dynamics involved in nursing practice was provided by the essential aspect that Theory One highlighted. By emphasizing the importance of a structured framework in guiding nursing practice and research, this theory has broadened my perspective. Intricately woven with interpersonal relationships and communication, it has provided me with a lens through which I can view patient care as a dynamic process (Roy, 2018).
My ability to analyze and evaluate Middle-Range Theories using internal and external criticism evidences the correlation with the student learning outcome. There is an alignment between the ability to assess the logical development and consistency of nursing theories and the class’s focus on critical thinking (Roy, 2018). The exploration of criticisms and counterarguments has contributed to my ability to articulate and defend nursing practices and not just enhanced my analytical skills.
Advanced Theoretical Perspective of Nursing Class: Future Professional Development
In shaping my future as a nursing professional, the Advanced Theoretical Perspective of Nursing class has been instrumental. By allowing me to comprehend the rationale behind nursing interventions and practices, this class provided me with a deep understanding of foundational theories and frameworks. By enabling me to assess situations, identify problems, and develop effective solutions based on theoretical knowledge, the critical thinking skills developed in this class have been invaluable.
Fostered by this class, Mastery of nursing theories has contributed to my professional growth. By promoting confidence and expertise in my field, it has allowed me to articulate and defend my nursing practices (Roy, 2018). By fostering adaptability in a dynamic field like nursing, the exposure to diverse theoretical perspectives has prepared me to adapt to various healthcare scenarios.
By combining empirical evidence with theoretical foundations to deliver the best patient care, the integration of theoretical knowledge with evidence-based practice has empowered me to make decisions that are informed. This aligns with the class’s emphasis on evidence-based practice and has enhanced my ability to contribute meaningfully to interdisciplinary teams.
Inspired by a deeper understanding of theoretical perspectives, enhanced communication skills enable me to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams. As an essential component of professional development, this aligns with the class’s emphasis on communication skills.
Conclusion
In summary, my journey through the Advanced Theoretical Perspective of Nursing class has been transformative. It has translated into tangible skills and perspectives that are crucial for my future development as a nursing professional not just deepened my theoretical knowledge. The significance of this educational experience in shaping my professional journey is underscored by the correlation between the class’s learning outcomes and the exploration of essential nursing practices.
References
Liehr, P. R. (2018). Middle Range Theory for Nursing. Springer Publishing Company. https://philpapers.org/rec/SMIMRT
Roy, C. (2018). Key Issues in Nursing Theory Developments, Challenges, and Future Direction. Nursing Research, 67(2), 81-92. DOI: 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000266
Yang, IS., & Kang, Y. (2018). Self-Care model based on the theory of unpleasant symptoms in patients with heart failure. Applied Nursing Research, 43, 10-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apnr.2018.06.005
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