Non-nursing theories, also known as borrowed theories, are theories developed in disciplines other than nursing but are applied to nursing practice to explain and understand nursing care and practice aspects. These theories help organize, describe, explain, analyze, and understand nursing care or practice aspects. They are often integrated into nursing theories to ensure quality care delivery and can be used to explain different nursing systems, practices, and behavior. Understanding non-nursing theories is essential for nursing students as they form the foundation for developing applicable nursing models that influence nursing practice.
Key Facts
- Borrowed Theories: Non-nursing theories are often referred to as borrowed theories because they are theories developed in other disciplines that are borrowed and applied to nursing.
- Examples of Non-Nursing Theories: Some examples of non-nursing theories include Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory, Lewin’s Change Theory, Paul’s Critical Thinking Theory, Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model, Systems Theory, and Systems Thinking.
- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory: This theory, developed by Abraham Maslow, explains humans’ motivation to pursue different levels of needs hierarchically, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization.
- General Systems Theory: Introduced by biologist Ludwig von Bertalanffy, this theory offers a holistic understanding of how various systems interact and function, providing insights into the relationships between different aspects of patient care and the healthcare system.
- Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory: Developed by Erik Erikson, this theory focuses on individuals’ interaction and learning about their world, and can be applied by nurses in caring for patients at different stages of life.
- Lewin’s Change Theory: Kurt Lewin’s change theory, developed in 1951, has widespread application in nursing and describes change occurring in three stages: unfreezing, changing, and refreezing.
- Paul’s Critical Thinking Theory: Paul-Elder’s critical thinking framework emphasizes the active and skillful analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of information, and can guide nurses in various aspects of their practice, such as team communication and care planning.
- Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model: Developed by Rosenstock, this model explains the conditions under which a person will engage in individual health behaviors, such as preventive screenings or seeking treatment for a health condition.
Examples of Non-Nursing Theories
There are various non-nursing theories that can be applied in nursing practice and patient scenarios. Some common examples include:
- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory: This theory, developed by Abraham Maslow, explains humans’ motivation to pursue different levels of needs hierarchically, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization.
- General Systems Theory: Introduced by biologist Ludwig von Bertalanffy, this theory offers a holistic understanding of how various systems interact and function, providing insights into the relationships between different aspects of patient care and the healthcare system.
- Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory: Developed by Erik Erikson, this theory focuses on individuals’ interaction and learning about their world, and can be applied by nurses in caring for patients at different stages of life.
- Lewin’s Change Theory: Kurt Lewin’s change theory, developed in 1951, has widespread application in nursing and describes change occurring in three stages: unfreezing, changing, and refreezing.
- Paul’s Critical Thinking Theory: Paul-Elder’s critical thinking framework emphasizes the active and skillful analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of information, and can guide nurses in various aspects of their practice, such as team communication and care planning.
- Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model: Developed by Rosenstock, this model explains the conditions under which a person will engage in individual health behaviors, such as preventive screenings or seeking treatment for a health condition.
Conclusion
Non-nursing theories play a significant role in nursing practice by providing a framework for understanding and explaining nursing care and practice aspects. By integrating these theories into nursing theories, nurses can deliver quality care, develop applicable nursing models, and enhance their understanding of different nursing systems, practices, and behaviors. The examples discussed in this article, such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, General Systems Theory, Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory, Lewin’s Change Theory, Paul’s Critical Thinking Theory, and Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model, demonstrate the diverse range of non-nursing theories that can be applied in nursing practice.
References:
- NurseMyGrade. (2023, August 17). Non-Nursing/Borrowed Theories used in Nursing. https://nursemygrade.com/non-nursing-or-borrowed-theories
- SupportGroupsForNurses. (2023, May 1). Exploring Non-Nursing Theories for Students: Broadening Your Knowledge Base. https://supportgroupsfornurses.org/resources/non-nursing-theories-for-students-expand-your-understanding/
- Villanueva, J. C. (2022, December 13). non-nursing theories. https://www.slideshare.net/JohnChristianVillanueva/theory-29875847
FAQs
What are non-nursing theories?
Non-nursing theories are theories developed in disciplines other than nursing but are applied to nursing practice to explain and understand nursing care and practice aspects. They help organize, describe, explain, analyze, and understand nursing care or practice aspects.
Why are non-nursing theories important in nursing?
Non-nursing theories provide a framework for understanding and explaining nursing care and practice aspects. By integrating these theories into nursing theories, nurses can deliver quality care, develop applicable nursing models, and enhance their understanding of different nursing systems, practices, and behaviors.
What are some examples of non-nursing theories used in nursing?
Some common examples of non-nursing theories used in nursing include Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, General Systems Theory, Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory, Lewin’s Change Theory, Paul’s Critical Thinking Theory, and Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model.
How can non-nursing theories be applied in nursing practice?
Non-nursing theories can be applied in nursing practice in various ways. For instance, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory can be used to understand patients’ needs and prioritize nursing interventions accordingly. General Systems Theory can be used to analyze the relationships between different aspects of patient care and the healthcare system. Lewin’s Change Theory can be used to guide nurses in implementing changes in nursing practice.
What are the benefits of using non-nursing theories in nursing?
Using non-nursing theories in nursing offers several benefits, including:
- Enhanced understanding of nursing care and practice aspects.
- Improved quality of patient care.
- Development of applicable nursing models.
- Increased knowledge of different nursing systems, practices, and behaviors.
Are non-nursing theories widely used in nursing practice?
Yes, non-nursing theories are widely used in nursing practice. Many nursing theories and models incorporate concepts and principles from non-nursing theories. For example, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory is frequently used in nursing to guide patient care planning and interventions.
How can I learn more about non-nursing theories?
There are several ways to learn more about non-nursing theories:
- Take nursing courses that focus on nursing theory and research.
- Read books and articles about non-nursing theories and their application in nursing.
- Attend workshops and conferences on non-nursing theories and nursing practice.
- Discuss non-nursing theories with your nursing colleagues and professors.
How do non-nursing theories contribute to the development of nursing knowledge?
Non-nursing theories contribute to the development of nursing knowledge by providing new perspectives and insights into nursing care and practice. They challenge nurses to think critically about their practice and to consider different ways of providing care. By integrating non-nursing theories into nursing research and practice, nurses can expand the body of nursing knowledge and improve the quality of patient care.