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Theory: Lenz theory of Unpleasant Symptoms

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Theory: Lenz theory of Unpleasant Symptoms

PICO Question: In adult patients with plantar fasciitis (P), how does a prefabricated orthotic

(intervention) compared to a dorsal night splint (C) improve one’s mobility (O)?

Introduction

Lenz's theory is a middle-range nursing theory that focuses on understanding and

addressing unpleasant symptoms experienced by patients in the context of their healthcare. It

seeks to explain the underlying causes and effects of these symptoms and provides a framework

for nursing interventions to alleviate them (Gomes et al., 2019).

Three main concepts

Symptom experience: This concept encompasses the patient's subjective experience of

physical and psychological symptoms (Gomes et al., 2019). It recognizes that symptoms are not

just biological but also influenced by the patient's perception, culture, and context.

Symptom management:: Lenz's theory emphasizes the importance of effective symptom

management, which involves assessing and intervening to reduce or eliminate symptoms (Silva-

Rodrigues et al., 2019). This concept highlights the role of nursing interventions in improving

patients' symptom experiences.

Context of symptom experience: This concept acknowledges that symptoms are

influenced by various contextual factors, such as the patient's environment, social support, and

personal resources (Silva-Rodrigues et al., 2019). These factors interact with the symptom

experience and management process.

Application to the problem

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In the context of plantar fasciitis and the comparative effectiveness of interventions,

Lenz's theory applies by recognizing that the experience of symptoms, such as pain and reduced

mobility, is not solely determined by the biological aspects of the condition. Factors like patient

perception, their support system, and even the chosen intervention (prefabricated orthotics or

dorsal night splints) can influence the symptom experience. For example, a patient's perception

of the effectiveness of a treatment (orthotics or splints) can affect their symptom experience.

Additionally, their social support network and access to healthcare resources can impact their

ability to manage symptoms effectively. Lenz's theory underscores the need for nurses and

healthcare providers to consider these complex interactions when addressing the multifaceted

problem of plantar fasciitis and its impact on patient mobility.

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References

Gomes, G. L. L., Oliveira, F. M. R. L. D., Barbosa, K. T. F., Medeiros, A. C. T. D., Fernandes,

M. D. G. M., & Nóbrega, M. M. L. D. (2019). Theory of unpleasant symptoms: critical

analysis. Texto & Contexto-Enfermagem, 28.

Silva-Rodrigues, F. M., Hinds, P. S., & Nascimento, L. C. (2019). The theory of unpleasant

symptoms in pediatric oncology nursing: a conceptual and empirical fit?. Journal of

Pediatric Oncology Nursing, 36(6), 436-447.