Module Components

• Overview
• Assignments

Topics

• Quality Improvement Models

NDNP 804 - Theory for Evidence-Based Practice

Module 8: Theory, Model or Framework Identification

Searching for Theories

Secondary sources can be an excellent way of starting a search and getting an overview of a theory. Secondary sources that may be helpful include nursing theory websites and nursing theory textbooks (see Additional Resources in the Overview of this module). However, for your scholarly papers, it is best to seek primary sources, whenever possible. If the theory has evolved over time, it is also best to search for and reference the most current version of the theory. For example, see the evolution of Campinha-Bacote’s (2015) model of cultural competence.

Library databases are another resource for finding theories. Useful databases include OneSearch, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Dissertations & Theses. Most dissertations include a discussion of a conceptual or theoretical framework. It is important that if you do select a theory, it should be a middle-range or practice theory.

Criteria Used to Select a Theory

Choosing to use one theory over another involves subjective and objective processes. Both are important. For example, one must consider if the assumptions of the theory are congruent with one’s own assumptions (subjective process), and the theorist’s level of experience (objective process). The following are criteria identified by Meleis (2015):

1. Personal: personal comfort, intuitive choices, theory’s congruency with your philosophical view of life
2. Theorist: who theorist is, his/her standing in the field and status, and recognition
3. Literature support: availability of extensive writings about the theory and the status it holds
4. Sociopolitical congruency: congruency between theory implementation process and sociopolitical and economic climate of the organization in which theory will be used
5. Utility: ease by which theory was understood and how it will be used

Meleis, A. I. (2015). Theoretical nursing: Development and progress. (5th ed.).Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer / Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins.