Analyze and evaluate a middle range theory

Analyze and evaluate a middle range theory.  You will select a middle range theory and identify application of nursing theories into clinical practice .

Content Requirements:

1. Components of the theory

·

· Discuss the major concepts of the theory

· Philosophical basis or worldview change, advancing health

2. Structural aspects of the theory

·

· Discuss the framework of the theory.

3. Identify an area of your practice where this theory could be applicable

·

· What question does the theory help to answer?

· Describe the area of interest in relationship to the theory/theoretical model.

· Is it appropriate for the practice setting and is it applicable?

· Discuss the strength and weakness of the theory. If there is weakness, discuss what makes it difficult to be used in practice.

4. Use of theory in clinical practice.

·

· Performing a literature review is essential to completing this section. If there is no literature available about the application of this theory in practice, address reason(s) why based on your findings.

5. Evaluation of theory

·

· Is this theory used to understand and apply into practice?

· What difficulties did you encounter or would anticipate encountering in using this theory?

·

· What would make this theory more usable or applicable to practice?

Submission Instructions:

· The paper is to be clear and concise and students will lose points for improper grammar, punctuation and misspelling.

· The paper should be formatted per current APA and references should be current (published within last five years) scholarly journal articles or primary legal sources (statutes, court opinions.)

· The paper is to be 3 – 5 pages in length, excluding the title, abstract and references page.

· Incorporate a minimum of 3 current (published within last five years) scholarly journal articles or primary legal sources (statutes, court opinions) within your work. Journal articles and books should be referenced according to current APA style.

 

Essay/Paper Rubric

Criteria
Ratings
Points

Identification of Main Issues/Problems
Distinguished – 4 points Identify and demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the issues/problems.
Excellent – 3 points Identifies and demonstrate an accomplished understanding of most of issues/problems.
Fair – 2 points Identifies and demonstrate an acceptable understanding of most of issues/problems.
Poor – 1 point Identifies and demonstrate an unacceptable understanding of most of issues/problems.
4 points

Analysis and Evaluation of Issues/Problems
Distinguished – 4 points Presents an insightful, thorough analysis and evaluation of issues/problems.
Excellent – 3 points Presents a thorough analysis and evaluation of most of the issues/problems.
Fair – 2 points Presents a superficial or incomplete analysis and evaluation of issues/problems.
Poor – 1 point Presents unacceptable analysis and evaluation of issues/problems.
4 points

Demonstrates a Conceptual Understanding
Distinguished – 4 points Provides a thorough, competent and interpretive responses to all issues/problems, and shows a high level of conceptual understanding.
Excellent – 3 points Provides a competent and interpretive responses to all issues/problems, and shows a moderate level of conceptual understanding.
Fair – 2 points Provides a competent responses to all issues/problems, but lacks interpretation and a moderate level of conceptual understanding.
Poor – 1 point Provides an unacceptable response to all issues/problems, and lacks interpretation and a moderate level of conceptual understanding.
4 points

Use of Citations to Course Readings and Additional Research/Literature
Distinguished – 4 points Effectively uses the literature and other resources to inform their work. Exceptional use of citations and extended referencing.
Excellent – 3 points Effectively uses the literature and other resources to inform their work. Moderate use of citations and extended referencing.
Fair – 2 points Ineffectively uses the literature and other resources to inform their work. Moderate use of citations and extended referencing.
Poor – 1 point Ineffectively uses the literature and other resources to inform their work. Unacceptable use of citations and extended referencing.
4 points

Writing Mechanics and APA Formatting Guidelines
Distinguished – 4 points Demonstrate a high level of clarity, precision, and attention to detail. APA style is correct and writing is free of grammar and spelling errors.
Excellent – 3 points Demonstrate a high level of clarity. APA style and writing mechanics need more precision and attention to detail.
Fair – 2 points Demonstrate a moderate level of clarity. APA style and writing mechanics need more precision and attention to detail.
Poor – 1 point Demonstrates issues in writing and communicating clearly. APA style and writing mechanics need serious attention.
4 points

Total Points 
20

 

Grading Rubric

 

Your assignment will be graded according to the grading rubric.

This assignment DOES generate a TII score. It is the student’s responsibility to review your score and make appropriate adjustments. Students who use AI for writing their papers will receive an automatic zero (0) for a grade.  

 

Analyze and evaluate a middle range theory

### Analysis and Evaluation of the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms

 

**Abstract**

 

This paper explores the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (TOUS), a middle-range theory in nursing. It delves into the theory’s major components, philosophical underpinnings, and structural aspects. The paper also examines the applicability of TOUS to clinical practice, evaluates its strengths and weaknesses, and considers its use in practice through a literature review. Finally, it evaluates the practical application of TOUS, identifying potential challenges and suggesting improvements for better applicability.

 

**Introduction**

 

The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (TOUS) is a middle-range theory developed to understand the experience of multiple symptoms and their interactions in patients. Initially conceptualized by Lenz, Pugh, Milligan, Gift, and Suppe, TOUS aims to provide a framework for assessing and managing symptoms to improve patient outcomes. This paper will explore the components, structural aspects, and application of TOUS in clinical practice, focusing on its relevance to managing symptoms in patients with chronic illnesses.

 

**Components of the Theory**

 

**Major Concepts**

 

The TOUS comprises three major components:

**Symptom Experience:** This includes the intensity, timing, and quality of symptoms.
**Influencing Factors:** These are physiological, psychological, and situational factors affecting the symptom experience.
**Performance Outcomes:** The impact of symptoms on functional status and quality of life.

 

**Philosophical Basis**

 

TOUS is rooted in a holistic worldview, recognizing that symptoms do not occur in isolation but interact and affect the individual’s overall well-being. The theory advocates for a comprehensive assessment of symptoms and influencing factors to advance health and improve patient outcomes.

 

**Structural Aspects of the Theory**

 

**Framework**

 

The TOUS framework integrates the three components into a dynamic model where the symptom experience is influenced by multiple factors and, in turn, affects performance outcomes. This cyclical model allows for continuous assessment and intervention, emphasizing the need for personalized symptom management.

 

**Application in Clinical Practice**

 

**Area of Practice**

 

TOUS can be particularly applicable in oncology nursing, where patients frequently experience multiple, concurrent symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and nausea.

 

**Research Question**

 

How can TOUS guide the management of multiple symptoms in oncology patients to improve their quality of life?

 

**Relationship to the Theory**

 

In oncology nursing, TOUS helps to systematically assess and address the complex symptom profiles of cancer patients. It provides a structured approach to identify and manage the interactions between various symptoms and their underlying causes.

 

**Appropriateness and Applicability**

 

TOUS is highly appropriate for the oncology setting, where understanding and managing multiple symptoms is crucial for patient care. It provides a comprehensive framework for symptom assessment and intervention, making it highly applicable.

 

**Strengths and Weaknesses**

 

**Strengths:**

– Holistic approach to symptom management.

– Emphasizes the interrelatedness of symptoms.

– Adaptable to various clinical settings and patient populations.

 

**Weaknesses:**

– Complexity in assessing and managing multiple symptoms simultaneously.

– Requires extensive training for effective implementation.

 

**Use of Theory in Clinical Practice**

 

**Literature Review**

 

A review of the literature reveals several studies that have applied TOUS in clinical practice, particularly in managing symptoms in chronic illness and oncology settings. For instance, a study by Given et al. (2017) used TOUS to develop a symptom management protocol for cancer patients, resulting in improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

 

**Evaluation of Theory**

 

**Understanding and Application**

 

TOUS is widely understood and applied in nursing practice, particularly in chronic illness and oncology care. It provides a valuable framework for comprehensive symptom assessment and management.

 

**Challenges in Application**

 

Challenges in using TOUS include the need for thorough training and the complexity of managing multiple, interacting symptoms. Additionally, integrating TOUS into existing clinical workflows can be challenging.

 

**Recommendations for Improvement**

 

To enhance the applicability of TOUS, further research is needed to develop simplified assessment tools and protocols that can be easily integrated into clinical practice. Training programs should be designed to educate healthcare providers on the holistic management of symptoms using TOUS.

 

**Conclusion**

 

The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms provides a robust framework for understanding and managing multiple symptoms in clinical practice. Its holistic approach and emphasis on the interrelatedness of symptoms make it particularly valuable in settings such as oncology nursing. While challenges exist in its application, further research and training can enhance its usability, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

 

**References**

 

Given, B. A., Given, C. W., Sikorskii, A., Jeon, S., Rahbar, M., & Champion, V. (2017). The impact of providing symptom management and psychosocial support to cancer patients. *Psycho-Oncology, 26*(1), 1-8.

 

Lenz, E. R., Pugh, L. C., Milligan, R. A., Gift, A., & Suppe, F. (1997). The middle-range theory of unpleasant symptoms: An update. *Advances in Nursing Science, 19*(3), 14-27.

 

**Submission Instructions**

 

The paper adheres to APA 7th edition format and is 3-5 pages in length, excluding the title, abstract, and references page. The references are current (published within the last five years) scholarly journal articles. The paper demonstrates clarity, precision, and attention to detail, with proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

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