What began the theory era in nursing?

The theory era in nursing was marked by a shift toward the systematic development of nursing knowledge. This era emphasized the importance of creating and utilizing frameworks that helped guide nursing practice, education, and research. Knowledge development entails not only the theoretical aspects but also the alignment and integration of various concepts into a cohesive body of knowledge that informs practice.

This period represents an essential evolution in the discipline of nursing, moving from anecdotal or practice-based approaches to one that is firmly rooted in evidence-based theories. These theories provide the foundation for understanding patient care, guiding interventions, and establishing a professional identity within nursing. By focusing on knowledge development, the nursing profession could begin to articulate its unique contributions to healthcare and emphasize the scientific basis for nursing practices.

While quantitative research, clinical practice, and patient assessment are important components of nursing, they all rely on a strong theoretical foundation to apply effectively in practice. The theory era is fundamentally about establishing and expanding that foundational knowledge which underpins all other aspects of nursing.