Nursing perspectives on Integral Theory in nursing practice and education: An interpretive descriptive study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Integral Theory
• Holistic Nursing

Background:

• Nursing practice has historically advocated for theory-informed approaches.
• Recent focus shifted to mid-range theories, with less emphasis on grand theory.
• A segment of the holistic nursing community maintains interest in grand theories, specifically Integral Theory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the practical application of Ken Wilber's Integral Theory within professional nursing.
• To understand how nurses utilize Integral Theory in their direct practice and professional roles.
• To provide a practice-based perspective on Integral Theory's utility in nursing.

Main Methods:

• An interpretive descriptive study design was employed.
• Qualitative data was gathered from nurses using Integral Theory.
• The research investigated how Integral Theory aids nurses in describing and understanding their work.

Main Results:

• Nurses utilized Integral Theory as a heuristic or map for inquiry.
• Integral Theory provided structure to professional nursing practice and education.
• Application was characterized by holonic, multiperspectival, and self-reflective approaches.

Conclusions:

• Integral Theory offers a valuable meta-framework for nursing practice and education.
• Challenges to implementation include the theory's intricacy and environmental factors.
• Further exploration of Integral Theory's application in nursing is warranted.