INTEGRATIVE APPROACH TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF SITUATION SPECIFIC THEORIES: THEORETICAL REFLECTION

Abstract

Objective: reflect on the use of the integrative approach and its contribution as a methodological path for the development of situation specific theories in nursing. Method: reflexive study, considering the methodological framework of Im and Meleis and the possibilities of its incorporation into Brazilian nursing for the development of situation specific theories. Results: the following topics are presented: Integrative approach: possibilities to develop situations specific theories; and, Usefulness of the development of situation specific theories from the integrative approach. The reflection is based on the experience of using the methodological framework for the development of situation specific theories, in addition to discussing the potentialities the framework has regarding the construction of theories that guide nursing care in particular contexts. Conclusion: the integrative approach is underused in the Brazilian context of theory production, despite being a nursing reference. Therefore, it needs to be made visible to strengthen the development of knowledge that represents diverse and specific realities in order to advance in clinical practice.