Patricia Benner's Theory and Nursing

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer explains that Patricia Benner presented a theory that dealt with how nurses acquire knowledge from the time the nurse is a student, up to the time when the nurse has gathered enough experience to decide based on personal judgment. The writer maintains that although some argue about its nature, whether it is a theory or a philosophy, its influence on the development of the nursing as a clinical practice and an academic discipline is undeniable. This paper gives a description of the person behind the theory and her contributions to nursing. The writer explains why Patricia Benner's theory is significant and shows how her theory has helped revolutionize nursing. in addition, a concise description of the theory content and how it is applied in clinical practice is presented. This paper also features views of authors that discredit or celebrate this theory. A discussion of the theory's weaknesses and strengths is discussed, as well as current development and theories that have developed from Benner's theory.

Outline:
Introduction
Patricia Benner and the Theory
Clinical Applications
Conclusion and Evaluation
Bibliography

From the Paper:

"The proficient stage involves a nurse who can see the situation as a whole. He is able to appreciate the situation as a whole, and not as disjointed elements. He sees some elements as important, while others are inconsequential. He can organize and understand problems intuitively, but he still needs to be analytical before he decides and executes an appropriate management plan. He sees problems that may arise in the future, and includes them in the nurse's plan of action.
The final stage is the expertise stage, where the nurse has developed an intuitive eye in assessing and managing his patients. He has a deeper understanding of the situation and can make a decision without relying on analytical principles."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Altmann, T. K. (2007). "An evaluation of the seminal work of Patricia Benner: theory or philosophy?" Contemporary Nurse, 25(1-2): 114-123.
• Christensen, M. and Hewitt-Taylor, J. (2006). "Defining the expert ICU nurse." Intensive and Critical Care Nursing, 22: 301-307.
• Gobet, F. and Chassy, P. (2008). "Towards an alternative to Benner's theory of expert intuition in nursing: A discussion paper." International Journal of Nursing Studies, 45: 129-139.
• Hargreaves, J. and Lane, D. (2001). "Delya's story: from expert to novice, a critique of Benner's concept of contest in the development of expert nursing practice." International Journal of Nursing Studies, 38: 389-394.
• Information and Resources for Nurses Worldwide. (17 August 2008). Pat Benner. [Online.] Retrrieved 18 August 2008 from the Web site: http://www.nurses.info/nursing_theory_person_benner_pat.htm

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