Application of Fawcett’s Criteria in Theory Evaluation

Abstract

Nursing informatics is an emergent field of practice, as are the conceptual and theoretical frameworks that underpin research in this field of practice. In research, theoretical frameworks serve as structured roadmaps that connect various concepts and propositions in a field of study. Therefore, building theoretical frameworks in nursing informatics requires evaluating relevant knowledge from other disciplines that intersect with nursing informatics to justify its relevance and applicability. Fawcett’s criteria provide feasible approaches for evaluating middle-range theory. Consequently, the prominent health program framework popularly referred to as the Donabedian Healthcare Quality Framework is significant to nursing informatics research and projects.