Question

Describe how complexity theory applies to inpatient nursing.

Answer 1

complexity theory as 'a collection of individual agents who are free to act in ways that are not totally predictable and whose actions are interconnected, such that one agent's actions change the context for other agents.

Complexity theory, as a way of understanding organisations and communities, has been considered as an approach within healthcare management rather than as a nursing tool. This says that by understanding all the component parts and how they work, the whole engine can be understood and made to work efficiently.

complexity theory in human systems is adapted from those in the sciences: examples include understanding how bees swarm, how the stock market operates or even Darwin's theories of natural selection and evolution.

Complexity Theory is a framework for understanding how to enable people and organizations for adaptability. It aslo builds lerdership qualities.

The literature review indicates that complexity of nursing care appears to be one of the variables of care intensity, the latter being defined as a commitment of care delivered to the patient. It is associated with the concepts of nursing work, nursing workload, patient acuity and severity of illness.