Define and/or describe grand, middle range, and micro-range nursing theory. For each type of theory, give one theorist and his or her theory as an example.

Understanding nursing theory | Nursing homework help

Grand nursing theory is a broad-based concept of how the world works and provides a framework for understanding and guiding practice. Grand theories are often abstract and philosophical in nature, offering an overall view of health care without providing specific instructions on how to interact with individuals. An example of grand theory would be Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, which focuses on the importance of nurse-patient relationship in providing quality care.

Middle range nursing theory is more focused than grand theories, offering specific direction on certain aspects of care such as relationships between concepts or variables that affect patient outcomes. Middle range theories provide guidance to practitioners in terms of patient assessment, interventions, and evaluation techniques. An example would be Virginia Henderson’s Need Theory which outlines 14 basic needs that must be met for individuals to experience optimum health status.

Micro-range nursing theory is focused at a very specific level; these theories are designed to address very precise issues related to particular context or populations such as mental illness or pediatric care. Micro-range theories provide nurses with tools they can use when working directly with patients or families in clinical settings by pinpointing how best to approach different situations based on individual circumstances. An example of micro-range theory would be Madeleine Leininger’s Cultural Care Diversity and Universality Theory which emphasizes that cultural values have an impact on health outcomes and should be considered when developing person-centered plans for care delivery.