The theory-practice relationship in nursing: a debate

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Practice
• Professional Development

Background:

• The existence of a gap between nursing theory and practice has been a persistent and divisive issue within the profession for decades.
• This debate has significant implications for nursing education, research, and clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a debate between two nursing scholars with opposing views on the theory-practice gap.
• To explore the nuances and arguments surrounding the existence, or non-existence, of a gap between nursing theory and practice.

Main Methods:

• A scholarly debate conducted via email between two authors with differing perspectives.
• The authors, based in England and New Zealand, engaged in a structured exchange of arguments and counterarguments.

Main Results:

• One author argues for the concrete existence of a gap between nursing theory and practice.
• The other author posits that the concept of a gap is axiomatic and represents a false dichotomy.

Conclusions:

• The debate highlights the complexity and multifaceted nature of the theory-practice relationship in nursing.
• Further dialogue is essential to understand and potentially bridge any perceived disconnects in nursing knowledge and application.