Contributions to nursing science: synthesis of findings from adaptation model research

Researchers who had used the Roy Adaptation Model (RAM) to guide their individual investigations collaborated to enhance knowledge development about adaptation of adults to actual and potential health problems. The purpose of this article is to present the synthesis of findings across selected studies that used the RAM. From this synthesis, middle-range theories were identified that in turn provided the scientific rationale for development and testing of clinical interventions. Contributions to the advancement of nursing science include a method to strengthen the relationships between research, theory, and practice; and increased understanding of the process of adaptation in adults; support for the efficacy of the RAM for nursing practice; and the benefit of collaboration between nursing researchers using the same model to guide their work.