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30 UNIT I Evolution of Nursing Theories

Reynolds, 1971). Relational statements consist of incorporating Newton’s law of gravitation is a classic
axioms and propositions. Abstract, theoretical state- example. Axiomatic theories (theories with equations)
ments, or axioms, are at the top of the hierarchy are less common in the social and behavioral sci-
of relational statements. The other propositions are ences, but they are quite evident in the fields of phys-
developed through logical deduction from the axioms ics and mathematics.
or from research findings in the literature (Table 3-7). Developing theories in axiomatic form has several
This results in a highly interrelated, explanatory advantages (Reynolds, 1971; Salmon, 1973). First,
system. because theory is a set of interrelated statements in
Theorists avoid the problem of contradictory axi- which some statements derive from others, only con-
oms by using a conceptual system with a few broad cepts to be measured need to be operationally de-
axioms from which a set of propositions are derived. fined (Reynolds, 1971). This allows the theorist to
The seven nursing conceptual models (Unit III, incorporate highly abstract less measurable concepts
Chapters 12 to 18) in this text are examples of to provide explanation. The theoretical system also
frameworks with broad axioms from which theory may be more efficient for explanation than a lengthy
may be developed. As science progresses and new number of theoretical statements in the form of laws.
empirical data are known, the general axioms may In addition, empirical support for one theoretical
be modified or extended. Examples of this type of statement may be based on findings of support from
extension are some of the nursing theories and earlier research, thereby permitting less extensive
middle-range theories that were developed using a research than the requirement to test each statement
nursing conceptual model as their broad axioms. in the laws form. In certain instances, the theory may
However, these additions must be consistent with be organized in a causal process form to increase
the logical system of the model and not include con- understanding and substantiate findings.
tradictions in the theory, or the theory will be re- The distinguishing feature of the causal process
jected (Schlotfeldt, 1992). New theories may also form of theory development is the theoretical state-
subsume portions of previous theories as special ments that specify causal mechanisms between inde-
cases (Brown, 1977). Einstein’s theory of relativity pendent and dependent variables. Hence, the states

TABLE 3-7 Theory Development in the Scientific Method
Steps Example
Observation: Start with an observation that evokes a Autotransfusion is time-consuming for nurses caring for total knee
question. replacement patients.
Logical hypothesis: Using abductive, inductive, or deductive Autotransfusion patients have a higher hemoglobin level at discharge
logic, state a possible answer (hypothesis). than allogenic blood recipients.
Testing: Perform an experiment or test. Autotransfusion use results in an increased hemoglobin level at
discharge.
Dissemination: Publish your findings for the discipline. Poulin-Tabor, D., & Hyrkas, K. (2008). Evaluation of postoperative
blood salvage and re-transfusion in a total knee arthoplasty
patient population: A retrospective study. MEDSURG Nursing,
17(5), 317-321.
Replication: Other scientists will read your published Faber, F. C., & Hardin, S. R. (2010). Outcomes of knee replacement
work and try to duplicate it (verification). patients using autotransfusion. Orthopedic Nursing, 29(5), 333-337.
Findings: No significant difference in hemoglobin
Theory: If experiments from other researchers support No theory
your hypothesis, it will become a theory.