NUR302: Caring Approaches to Practice: Caring Science & Nursing Theory

When reading books on nursing theories, keep an eye out for citations to journal articles within the texts (and in bibliographies at the end of each chapter). The books will provide citations to key journal articles on specific theories.

Once you have a citation for an article, use the search box on the library homepage. Select Journals from the pull--down menu, type in the journal title, and click on Go.

Looking for CINAHL for articles on a theory?  

Here are a few pointers:

• Don't limit your search by date. You may find an excellent introduction to your theory in an older article.

• Try searching for any articles written by the author who originated your theory. Search for last name first, then first initial with an asterisk. For example: Instead of Barbara Resnick, search for Resnick, B*.

• It may be difficult to find articles on a theory that was introduced very recently. The longer a theory has been in existence, the more likely it is that you'll find articles discussing it.

Why use a book to research nursing theory?

Books are a resource for finding background information or overviews on theories and how they are applied to practice. If you have a specific issue or population you want to research but don't know which theory applies, try browsing one of the following books.

Come to the library to use print books, or access e-books from any computer using your Notre Dame credentials.

NOTE: Some print books are held on course reserves at the circulation desk. Check item holdings to verify location.