New citations - Practice Without Theory: A Philosophical Inquiry into Contemporary Nursing in South Asia

It is always welcome news when I learn of a paper (Asmat, 2024) recognising and citing Hodges' model from the nursing and wider literature. In this case an educational journal, focussed upon health and social care:

Kainat Asmat (2024). Practice Without Theory: A Philosophical Inquiry into Contemporary Nursing in South Asia: Nursing Practice without Theory. International Journal of Practice-based Learning in Health and Social Care. 12. 125-131. 10.18552/ijpblhsc.v12i2.1068. 

I have quoted at length, but it is good to have a different 'excuse' (not just extending the tail of a relevant book, or paper). ... 

'Similarly, Hodges' Health Career Model exemplifies its use as a tool for reflection during clinical assessments, care planning, and decision-making processes (Doyle & Jones, 2013). The model encourages nurses to reflect on their practice through multiple lenses, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of patient needs and care strategies. The Interpersonal domain emphasizes the relational aspects of nursing, including communication and empathy. The Sociological domain highlights the impact of societal factors and social determinants on health. The Scientific domain focuses on evidence-based practice and the integration of scientific knowledge into care. Finally, the Political domain addresses the influence of healthcare policies and organizational structures on contemporary nursing practice. In contemporary nursing practice, a nurse might use Hodges’ model to provide holistic and personalized care by considering the patient's social background, the scientific basis of their care, interpersonal dynamics, and relevant political or policy-related factors. According to Jones (2017), using conceptual models like Hodges' can greatly enhance nurses' critical thinking, fostering a reflective and engaged nursing workforce.' p.126.

'Collectively, nursing theory remains a cornerstone of contemporary nursing practice, providing an essential framework that guides clinical decision-making, promotes critical thinking, and supports reflective practice. Peter Jones, in his seminal works, underscores the critical role of theoretical models in enhancing nursing practice. His insights provide compelling evidence for the continued relevance of theory in contemporary practice. In "Humans, Information, and Science", Jones (1996a), articulates the interrelationship between human factors, informational processes, and scientific principles in healthcare. He argues that nursing, as a discipline, uniquely integrates these elements to form a comprehensive approach to patient care. This integration is fundamental in moving beyond task-oriented care towards a practice that is reflective and evidence-based. Jones emphasizes that without a theoretical foundation, contemporary nursing practice risks becoming fragmented and superficial, lacking the depth required for truly effective patient care. Similarly, in "An Overarching Theory of Health Communication",  Jones (1996b) explores the necessity of robust communication theories in healthcare. He posits that effective communication is not merely a skill but a complex process grounded in theoretical understanding. This perspective is particularly relevant to nursing, where communication is pivotal in patient interactions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and health education. Jones’ work illustrates that theoretical frameworks in communication enhance nurses' ability to engage with patients and colleagues thoughtfully and effectively, fostering better health outcomes and professional practice. Jones’ analyses reinforce the argument that nursing theory is indispensable in contemporary practice. Likewise, McEwen and Wills (2021) also highlight that nursing theory is integral to the development of nursing as a discipline. They assert that without the theoretical underpinnings, nursing risks regressing to a technical occupation devoid of critical thinking and judgment that characterize nursing professional practice. Thus, the survival and progression of nursing as a distinct profession depend on the continued integration and application of theory in contemporary nursing practice.' p.127.

In addition, the short conclusion is supportive and encouraging for ongoing efforts. As with all discovered citations thus far, I'm not sure of how Kainat Asmat located the publications on Hodges' model? A literature search - no doubt, or perhaps the blog's sidebar listing? The selection made, fits the author's purpose. 

Over the years, I've tried to indicate the scope and scale that Hodges' model can 'reach'. Especially in self-care, family, local, global and planetary health. Now, c/o Asmat (2024), Hodges' model has a much valued connection with South Asia. The required scope of Hodges' model (its inter- and transdisciplinary potential^) is also conceptual, referred to previously as holistic bandwidth. Hence the model's relevance and potential in theory and practice.

Many thanks to Kainat Asmat and the journal's editorial team.*

I will read again and return to the paper in our New Year.

Listed in the bibliography:

Doyle, M., Jones, P. (2013). Hodges’ Health Career Model and its role and potential application in forensic mental health nursing. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. 20, 7, 631-640.
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2850.2012.01961.x/abstract

Jones, P. (1996a) Humans, Information, and Science, Journal of Advanced Nursing, 24(3),591-598. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1365-2648.1996.23321.x

Jones, P. (1996b) An overarching theory of health communication? Health Informatics Journal,2,1,28-34.

^Still on the agenda as a paper; as with 'revisiting' 1996a. Happy to support others in referencing, or writing more specifically about Hodges' model (a case study, mapping exercise?); especially student nurses, carers and personnel in social care and early career researchers. To which, I'd better add later career nurses, allied disciplines, nurses returning to practice (surely a UK and global policy focus?) and proof of reading (your choice of course on the paper, chapter, book...); and reflection for continuing professional development (CPD). If you're still unsure, it was a relief to put the 'pen' down, well writing is still a major challenge (and pain) here. 

*And, of course - Brian E. Hodges RIP - too.
https://hodges-model.blogspot.com/2023/08/brian-e-hodges-r-i-p.html