What is the main purpose of middle-range theories in nursing practice?

The primary purpose of middle-range theories in nursing practice is to provide specific guidance for practice. These theories are designed to address particular aspects of nursing and patient care, filling the gap between grand theories, which are broad and abstract, and practice-level theories, which are very focused. Middle-range theories focus on certain phenomena relevant to nursing, such as stress management, patient education, or the dynamics of nurse-patient interactions, thus offering practical, actionable insights that can be implemented in everyday nursing situations.

By focusing on particular areas, middle-range theories enable nurses to apply evidence-based practices directly to patient care. They help in developing interventions and understanding patient responses, which can enhance the quality and effectiveness of nursing care. Therefore, these theories play a critical role in translating theoretical knowledge into practical applications, directly influencing patient outcomes and the nursing process.