Answers (Verified Update)
10 questions with answers
Topic: Nurs 307test 4 part 2
1. What is the metaparadigm of nursing and why is it important?
Answer: The metaparadigm defines what nursing is, what it does, and why nurses do what
they do. It provides the disciplinary foundation for understanding nursing's central concepts
(person, environment, health, nursing) and guides theoretical development and research.
2. Why do we need nursing theories? (So what?)
Answer: Nursing theories define the unique profession, explain how phenomena are
interrelated, guide practice, stimulate research, predict patient responses, support
coordinated care, and build nursing knowledge. They ensure nursing is evidence-informed
rather than task-based.
3. What is a theory? What are concepts and propositions?
Answer: A theory is an abstract generalization explaining relationships between
phenomena. Concepts: the building blocks (e.g., health, adaptation, stress). Propositions:
statements that link concepts together. Together, they form a structured explanation that
guides practice and research.
4. What are the types of nursing theories?
Answer: Grand theories: broad, abstract (e.g., Leininger's Transcultural Theory).
Middle-range theories: narrower, testable, practice-focused (e.g., Pender's Health Promotion
Model). Descriptive theories: describe phenomena (e.g., Benner's Novice to Expert).
Predictive & Prescriptive theories: predict relationships and guide interventions.
5. How do nursing theory and nursing research relate?
Answer: They form a triangle with practice. Theory generates questions 'research tests
theory. Research validates/refines theory 'strengthens evidence. Practice applies both
'improves patient outcomes. This cycle builds the scientific knowledge base for nursing.
6. How are theories used in quantitative vs qualitative research?
Answer: Quantitative: theory provides structure, guides variables, tests hypotheses,
evaluates interventions. Qualitative: theory acts as an interpretive lens rooted in
philosophical frameworks (e.g., phenomenology, grounded theory).
7. What are the major steps in Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)?
Answer: Ask a clinical question (PIO/PICO). Collect best evidence. Critically appraise
evidence. Integrate evidence with clinical expertise + patient preferences. Evaluate
outcomes. Share findings.
8. What is the difference between EBP, Research Utilization (RU), and Quality
Improvement (QI)?
Answer: EBP: integrates research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to guide
decisions. RU: applies research findings directly to practice. QI: uses data to improve
processes, safety, and outcomes (not necessarily research-based).
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