Question

The nursing instructor is teaching a class on nursing theory. One of the students asks, "Why do we need to know this stuff? It doesn't really affect patients." What is the instructor's best response?

A. "You are correct, but we have to learn it anyway."
B. "This keeps the focus of nursing narrow."
C. "Theories help explain why nurses do what they do."
D. "Exposure to theories will help you later in graduate school."

Answer 1

The nursing instructor should explain that nursing theory is essential because it underpins nursing practice and aids in understanding why specific interventions are performed, leading to better patient care.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best response that a nursing instructor could give to the question, "Why do we need to know nursing theory? It doesn't really affect patients," is C. "Theories help explain why nurses do what they do." Nursing theory is crucial because it provides a foundation for nursing practice and helps in the understanding of why certain nursing actions and interventions are carried out. It serves as a guide for nurses in making clinical decisions and delivering high quality patient care. Theories in nursing are not abstract concepts; they have practical applications in patient care. For instance, understanding the theory behind pain management can lead to better patient outcomes. Moreover, these theories are not static; they are refined or replaced as new evidence and better understandings emerge. Emphasizing nursing theory also prepares students for a future where they may need to evaluate and contribute to these theories, especially if they choose to advance their education through graduate studies.