Case Study: Integration of Nursing Theory and Evidence-Based Practice in Professional Nursing
Background Information:
Patient Profile: Jane Doe, a 58-year-old female with a history of Type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Presenting Issue: Recently hospitalized for a diabetic foot ulcer with signs of infection.
Admission Date: April 20, 2024
Current Setting: Medical-surgical unit of a community hospital.

Case Scenario:

Jane Doe was admitted to the medical-surgical unit after her primary care physician became concerned about the potential for sepsis due to her infected diabetic foot ulcer. As part of her care team, Nurse Smith utilizes her understanding of nursing theory and evidence-based practice to develop a comprehensive care plan for Jane.
Application of Nursing Theory:
Nurse Smith begins by applying the principles of Virginia Henderson’s Need Theory, which emphasizes the nurse’s role in assisting patients with essential activities to maintain health. Jane’s need for a clean and healing environment for her foot ulcer falls directly under the purview of Henderson’s 14 components of nursing care. Nurse Smith focuses on maintaining an aseptic technique during dressing changes and encourages Jane’s autonomy in managing her blood sugar levels to promote wound healing.

Evidence-Based Practice:

In addition to nursing theory, Nurse Smith integrates the latest evidence-based guidelines for the management of diabetic foot ulcers. She consults the hospital’s online medical library to access recent journal articles outlining the effectiveness of various antibiotic therapies and wound care products. After reviewing the literature, Nurse Smith collaborates with the healthcare team to select an antibiotic regimen proven effective against the bacteria cultured from Jane’s ulcer. She also chooses a wound dressing that maintains a moist environment, which has been shown to expedite healing in diabetic foot ulcers.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

Understanding that professional nursing involves a collaborative approach, Nurse Smith coordinates with the dietitian to ensure that Jane receives meals that are in line with diabetic dietary recommendations. She also arranges for a consultation with a wound care specialist to evaluate the current treatment plan and make necessary adjustments based on the best available evidence.
Patient and Family Education:
Nurse Smith takes the time to educate Jane and her family about the importance of blood sugar control, proper foot care, and the rationale behind each aspect of the treatment plan. She provides them with written materials and demonstrates the correct technique for wound care that Jane will continue at home.

Clinical Outcomes:

After a week of hospitalization, Jane’s infection shows signs of improvement, and her blood glucose levels are better managed. The interdisciplinary approach, guided by nursing theory and evidence-based practice, results in a positive outcome for Jane.
Discussion Points:
How did the integration of nursing theory enhance the patient care provided by Nurse Smith?
In what ways did evidence-based practice inform the clinical decision-making process in Jane’s case?
Discuss the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing complex health issues such as a diabetic foot ulcer.
Reflect on the role of patient and family education in ensuring the continuity of care post-discharge.

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