What type of nursing theory is primarily focused on describing phenomena?

The focus of a descriptive theory is to provide a clear and detailed account of specific phenomena within patient care and nursing practice. This type of theory aims to describe the characteristics, patterns, and relationships of particular phenomena without making predictions or prescribing interventions. By doing so, descriptive theories help to build a foundation for understanding various aspects of nursing, leading to deeper insights and further research in the field.

Descriptive theories often serve as a foundation upon which prescriptive and predictive theories can be developed, as they establish essential knowledge about the nature of nursing phenomena. Such theories can capture the complexities of patient experiences, healthcare environments, and nursing roles, making them crucial for enhancing nursing knowledge and practice.