Middle range theory evaluation: bridging the theory-practice gap

Abstract

Nurse education is being challenged to maintain quality in light of shortage of practice professionals, societal demands and rapid changes in health care delivery. The importance underlying the practice of nursing education must continue to be explored through theories to bring about refinement of educational strategies for nursing discipline. The involvement of students learning using this process will help create learning values that serve to retain inquisitive and reflective nursing students in academic settings, while expanding evidence-based education in nursing. This article describes selected middle range theory evaluation as a tool for bridging theory-practice gap and suggests approaches to generate active growth in nursing education to inform and promote optimal client health outcomes through use of concept linkages in theories.

Keywords: Middle Range Theory, Theory, Evaluation, Bridging Theory-Practice Gap