Describe the special education       and/or skill training recommended for nurses so that the theory or model       can be used in their clinical practice. 

Development of shared theory in palliative care to enhance nursing

Evaluation of the Practice Theory or Model

The selected practice theory for discussion is the development of shared theory in palliative care to enhance nursing competence. This theory aims to improve the nursing care provided to patients with life-threatening illnesses and their families by incorporating a shared understanding of palliative care concepts among healthcare professionals. The theory proposes that nurses can enhance their competence in palliative care by developing a shared language and understanding of the palliative care concepts.

Special Education and Skill Training Recommended for Nurses

The special education and skill training recommended for nurses to apply this theory in their clinical practice are developing an understanding of palliative care concepts, communication skills, and self-care practices. The education should focus on developing the ability to provide comprehensive assessment, symptom management, end-of-life care, and advance care planning. The skill training should focus on developing the ability to engage in difficult conversations with patients and their families, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making.

Clinical Protocols Derived from the Theory or Model

It is possible to derive clinical protocols from this theory or model. For instance, the palliative care team can develop protocols for symptom management, communication with patients and families, and end-of-life care. The protocols should be standardized and based on evidence-based practice to ensure that patients receive consistent and high-quality care.

Frequency of the Theory or Model Used for Nursing Research

This theory has been used for nursing research. A study by Dahlin, Coyne, and Ferrell (2016) used the development of shared theory in palliative care to enhance nursing competence as the theoretical framework. The study aimed to explore the relationships between nurses’ perceptions of their palliative care competence, palliative care education, and clinical experience. The study concluded that shared understanding of palliative care concepts among healthcare professionals is essential in improving the nursing care provided to patients with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Favorable Outcomes Resulting from the Theory or Model as the Basis for Nursing Practice

Two favorable outcomes resulting from this theory as the basis for nursing practice are improved quality of care and improved patient outcomes. By enhancing nurses’ competence in palliative care, patients receive comprehensive care, symptom management, and end-of-life care. Nurses’ improved competence also leads to improved communication with patients and families, reducing the chances of misunderstandings and conflicts. In turn, this results in improved patient satisfaction and better patient outcomes, including reduced symptom burden, improved quality of life, and increased comfort.

References

Dahlin, C., Coyne, P. J., & Ferrell, B. R. (2016). Development of the generalist palliative care competencies for nurses: A cornerstone for palliative care education. Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing, 18(2), 149-156.

Peterson, S. J., & Bredow, T. S. (2016). Middle range theories: Application to nursing research. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.