Introduction
In the field of healthcare, the comparison of theoretical and practical parts is of particular value and importance. This connection arises because using various theoretical knowledge allows us to correctly build approaches and strategies for helping patients. This is especially true when identifying patients’ symptoms, which is essential for a decision-making process and determining the further course of treatment. The theory of unpleasant symptoms is a productive tool in understanding what to look for in an assessment tool when providing healthcare services in medical facilities.
The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms
First, it is necessary to gain an understanding of the theory of unpleasant symptoms in healthcare. Research indicated that it “presents three main elements: the symptoms that the patient is experiencing; the factors that influence them, both in their nature and in their evolution; and the consequences of that experience” (Gomes et al., 2019, p. 3). Symptomatology is critically important, and medical specialists must evaluate it correctly and determine its complexity (Silva-Rodrigues et al., 2019). In addition, the theory of unpleasant symptoms provides an opportunity to determine the time aspect, caused distress, and degree of symptoms of a specific disease.
Application of the Theory
One of the most critical applications of the theory of unpleasant symptoms is to give an understanding of what healthcare professionals should consider when choosing a patient assessment method. The tool must cover a large number of symptoms in order to cover the full complexity of possible symptoms. These signs of deterioration of well-being can be physical and psychological and are considered “consequences of the symptom experience” (Blakeman, 2019, p. 949). This aspect will provide an understanding of how the symptoms are experienced on a subjective level and how they affect the overall objective condition of the patient.
Measuring Symptoms
Another criterion that the evaluation tool must meet concerning the theory of unpleasant symptoms is the ability to measure the intensity and frequency of their manifestation. This will provide an understanding of the severity of the disease, its localization, and what factors influence the change in symptoms and their manifestations. In addition, knowledge and application of the theory of unpleasant symptoms in practice contribute to considering individuals’ experiences and perceptions of the disease indicators. Doctors should be able to interpret the information and complaints that the patient provides to them to determine strategies and approaches to treatment.
Comprehensive Assessment of Symptoms
Assessment is a complex procedure because it should also include acquiring knowledge about external and internal aspects that affect the manifestation of symptoms of a particular disease. In other words, it should assist in understanding the internal symptoms that the patient complains about. The next step in this process is identifying external influence factors, such as social and psychological. This is due to the fact that these aspects play a critical role in the formation of a complete picture of an individual’s disease.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is a critical link between the cohesion of theory and practice in healthcare. This is because it provides the most effective and productive treatment outcomes. Therefore, the implementation of the theory of unpleasant symptoms can be successful in determining the assessment tool. This theoretical approach will help to find a way to identify the symptoms of the disease and identify factors that may affect the severity of their manifestation.
References
Blakeman, J. R. (2019). An integrative review of the theory of unpleasant symptoms. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 75(5), 946-961. Web.
Gomes, G. L. L., Oliveira, F. M. R. L. D., Barbosa, K. T. F., Medeiros, A. C. T. D., Fernandes, M. D. G. M., & NĂłbrega, M. M. L. D. (2019). Theory of unpleasant symptoms: critical analysis. Texto & Contexto-Enfermagem, 28. Web.
Silva-Rodrigues, F. M., Hinds, P. S., & Nascimento, L. C. (2019). The theory of unpleasant symptoms in pediatric oncology nursing: a conceptual and empirical fit? Journal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing, 36(6), 436-447. Web.