Question

What is the difference between high-, middle-, and low-range theories? Explain your understanding of a middle-range nursing theory. Identify a research study in which a middle-range theory was applied. Discuss the study results and implications for practice

Answer 1

HIgh-range theories are also called as Grand Range Theory.They present general concepts and propositions.These theories are for directing,explaining and predicting nursing in particular situations and for all instances

Mid-range nursing theories are are narrower in scope. It acts as a bridge between both high and low nursing theories.they are most verifiable through ttesting. They are simple,straight forward and general. But they have limited aspect of reality.

Low-nursing theories are used for most specific range of nursing situations.Such as an exact community or discipline.

Middle range theory has been used in variety of research studies.One such study is Acute pain management. This theory gives us the knowledge of the balance between the analgesic and side effects. It results tells us about the following

• Multimodal interventions ( giving potent pain medication along with pharmacologic and non pharmacologic intervention)
• Attentive Pain management
• Patient participation (describing the type of pain and explaining the outcome of medication)

This balance is important because when opiod analgesics are given the side effects are intense and it has to be countered effectively.Reduction of pain and reducing the side effects are essential for ethical, humanitarian and economic reasons.