What is used interchangeably with the conceptual model and grand theories in nursing?

The term that is used interchangeably with conceptual model and grand theories in nursing is the conceptual framework. A conceptual framework provides a systematic way to think about and organize knowledge related to nursing practice, guiding the development of nursing theories and practices. It encompasses various concepts and their relationships, forming the basis for understanding nursing phenomena.

In nursing education and practice, a conceptual framework helps to articulate the underlying principles that guide care and research. It can be broad and encompass various aspects of nursing, reflecting the complexity of patient care and the multifaceted nature of health. By utilizing a conceptual framework, nurses can frame their understanding of patient care in a way that integrates theory, practice, and research.

While the term "theoretical framework" is also important in the context of research, it typically refers to a more specific structure that outlines the theories and assumptions guiding a particular study. Clinical models may refer to specific methodologies or approaches for practicing nursing but do not equate to overarching theories or models on the same level as a conceptual framework. Grand theories, while related, represent broad theoretical constructs rather than the frameworks that combine various concepts and assumptions in a more structured manner.