title: Where is the theory to support infusion nursing?
abstract: Even though there has been a dramatic increase in both the type and number of nursing theories, the infusion nursing specialty remains without a theoretical base. This article addresses the need for and types of infusion nursing theory. The obstacles to theory development, including the theory-practice gap in nursing, are examined in terms of their relevance to the infusion specialty. Suggestions for beginning to create a professional environment conducive to generating infusion theory and simultaneously bridging the theory-practice gap are introduced.
authors.affiliation: Columbia Regional Hospital, University of Missouri Health Care, Columbia, Missouri, USA. hanchettm@health.missouri.edu
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hanchett
mesh_terms: D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D015399:Nursing Research; D009742:Nursing Theory; D017009:Professional Autonomy; D011361:Professional Competence; D013041:Specialties, Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*