From Theory to Practice: The Development of Assessment Guides from Qualitatively Derived Theory

In this article, a method of using qualitative research findings to develop a patient assessment guide is described. Qualitatively derived theory is deconstructed to form the theoretical components of the guide. Nursing assessment questions and behavioral signs are then elicited from the theory. Intervention strategies are extrapolated both from theory and from clinical nursing knowledge. Finally, the assessment guide is implemented and evaluated using techniques of qualitative outcome analysis to modify the guide and expand the repertoire of intervention strategies. This process is illustrated using two projects: hope (from concept analysis) and living with bipolar disorders (from grounded theory). Assessment guides provide a method for directly applying qualitative research to practice and constitute a valid and useful means of patient assessment and intervention.