The beauty of theoretical frameworks are that they are applicable in many situations, and designed to be applied to numerous nursing settings. These frameworks can be selected to address obstacles. In addition, these frameworks can be customized, and/ or combined, through practical usage of the integration model-theory as needed.
For instance, Bachmann, Danuser, & Morin (2015), combined Neuman’s Systems Model with Siegrist’s Effort-Reward Imbalance to specifically address a specific demographic. Once designed, variables were chosen and measured to determine efficacy. As nurses we are able to apply these frameworks in a clinical setting to improve outcomes.
As an example of practical application, Neuman’s system model could be applied to patient care on a multi-system progressive care unit. As this model addresses stressor vulnerability versus stressor adaptation, it could be applied towards the minimalization of extrinsic stressors in the unit environment (Newman, 2005). To determine efficacy, the unit would conduct surveys to measure patient perspectives regarding the chosen implementations. A likely environmental stressor would be noise at night. An accompanying question would be for analysis might be: “Is it quiet enough for you at night?” The responses – yes, no, most of the time, or some of the time – could be compiled, and measured. Once the results are determined, they may be reevaluated as per the nursing process.
References
Bachmann, A. O., Danuser, B., & Morin, D. (2015). Developing a Theoretical Framework Using a Nursing Perspective to Investigate Perceived Health in the “Sandwich Generation” Group. Nursing Science Quarterly, 28(4), 308-318.
Newman, D. (2008). Conceptual models of nursing and baccalaureate nursing education. Journal Of Nursing Education, 47(5), 199-200.