Have nursing models a place in intensive care units?

The usefulness of conceptual models to guide nursing practice within an intensive care unit is explored within this paper. In order to do this, the term 'nursing model' is first of all defined and the three key types identified. The benefits and difficulties of utilizing a nursing model are then considered. Within this discussion, the relationship of the nursing process to a nursing model is highlighted, as is the opportunity to give a structured and scientific base to clinical practice. Potential problems relating to the language used within the model are acknowledge. Finally, the selection and use of models within this area of practice is explored.