Middle Range Nursing Theory - The Tidal Theory

Well, I am happy to say that I think I found a middle range theory that is workable within my philosophy and current specialty (psychiatric nursing). Here is a basic introduction in addition to the complexities associated with implementation of such a practice.

Giving direct care always starts at the beginning. Using the Tidal theory, identification of risks and strengths that will help propel the patient forward independent of nursing care or any needed service is buy and large, the first step. Oftentimes, a patient has already suffered from many conditions be it chronic health or psychiatric abnormalities, psychological or physical abuse, and even socioeconomic stress. There are often combinations of stressors that make synthesis of treatment challenging.

The point of this approach is to help the patient develop a plan that will enable them to develop, refine, and achieve personal goals (McEwen & Wills, 2011). If a patient came into my psychiatric unit suffering from obesity, diabetes, and schizophrenia, my approach would be directed by the influencing factors surrounding these conditions. Always keeping in mind the patient’s basic need to command their life, goals, and course correction when considering recommendations for treatment. The whole philosophy of recovery encapsulated in the Tidal theory is entirely dependent upon collaboration between professional disciplines and the patient (Tidal Model, 2000). This means the nurse would have to be working with like-minded professionals in order to achieve the desired goals of this theory.

Practical application is to find a method of stabilizing the patient’s psychiatric symptoms to better serve his or her needs on the physiologic level. The patient presents with a complex array of abnormalities and meeting the micro/macro nutrient needs associated with psychiatric symptoms, glucose fluctuations, and fat metabolism should be incorporated as a supportive measure to help with the stabilization and recovery process.

Utilizing this first method will help to achieve the goal of the Tidal theory which is to enable a person to reclaim their life, personal direction, and rediscover their voice (Tidal Model, 2000).

References

McEwen, M. and Wills, E. (2011). Theoretical Basis for Nursing. [3^rd ed.]. Philadelphia, PA: Wolters, Kluwer/Lippincott, William, and Wilkins

Tidal Model, (2000). Reclaiming Stories, Recovering Lives. Retrieved January 14, 2012, from www.tidal-model.com/What%20is%20the%20Tidal%20Model.htm