The Theory of Goal Attainment in Research and Practice

King's conceptual system may be used to build a world community of nurses who respect cultural differences and share the mutual goal of health in each nation. The concepts in this systems framework have been the basis for research and practice and for developing theories such as the theory of goal attainment. This theory includes a human process of interactions that lead to transactions and to goal attainment (outcomes). This process is useful in any nursing situation and in any culture. Knowledge of the concepts of the theory have been applied in practice in the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Japan. An example of implementing theory-based practice in a hospital is discussed.