According to Utley (2018), “conceptual models represent relationships between abstract concepts and are more general or broad in scope than grand, middle range, and practice theories” (p. 7). In other words, conceptual models are too broad and abstract to be applied to specific nursing practice situations. However, conceptual models are used to develop theories by providing useful frameworks (Utley, 2018). In order to apply conceptual models into practice, the general framework needs to be broken down to mid-range theories and supported by measurement of outcome (Utley, 2018). The Conceptual-Theoretical-Empirical (CTE) model can help narrow down these components to demonstrate how the conceptual model can be used in real-life practice.
The personal theory I have developed in week 2 is that aromatherapy (concept A) reduces (proposition) chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) (concept B). CINV is among the most feared side effects of cancer treatments that affect up to 40% of cancer patients (Gupta et al., 2021). Nausea and vomiting in cancer patients lead to detrimental problems such as dehydration, malnourishment, and electrolyte imbalances (Dilek & Necmiye, 2020). Aromatherapy is a non-pharmacological method that utilizes essential oils to “stimulate the central nervous system through inhalation and help the formation of positive emotions or elimination of negative emotions” (Dilek & Necmiye, 2020, p. 1). A systemic review by Dilek and Necmiye (2020) suggested that inhalation of aromatherapy reduced the severity of CINV, and it is a cost-effective and applicable intervention for cancer patients.
By utilizing Jean Watson’s conceptual framework of the Theory of Human Caring and some of the middle-range theories, the CTE model will help demonstrate how this theory can apply to practice and measure outcomes to examine the effectiveness of the intervention. The middle-range theories that apply to this situation are Caritas Processes four and eight (Watson, 2021). Caritas four involves “developing and sustaining loving, trusting-caring relationships” (Watson, 2021, p. 1). Trying to help the patients eliminate the feelings of nausea and vomiting, shows that the nurse is in touch with the patient’s condition and needs. The nurse’s action may lead to the patient’s development of trust and rapport. According to Leslie & Lonneman (2016), to establish a trusting relationship between the nurse and patient, the nurse must meet the needs of the patient, respects the patient, and be a reliable person to the patient. Caritas eight involves “creating a healing environment at all levels; subtle environment for energetic authentic caring presence” (Watson, 2021, p. 1). The act of utilizing scent by the nurse directly creates a new healing environment for the patients. This physical change of the environment stimulates the central nervous system, creates positive emotions, and eliminates negative emotions (Dilek & Necmiye, 2020).