A theoretical framework does not need to be a "nursing theory." That is
misuse of the "grand theories" such as Roy, Orem, etc. You did not say
enough about your study for me to offer a specific theoretic framework.
However, the theoretical foundation for a study offers the best explanation
to date why a phenomenon may occur. For a second stage study, you could use
a physiologic framework if your hypotheses and outcomes are physiologically
based. We know a lot of pieces of physiology but often it is the interaction
of several areas or systems of information that must be considered together
to explain a phenomenon such as "intact perineum." Or, if you are examining
women's motivation to not have episiotomy, for instance, then you could use a
motivational theory such as Cheryl Cox's theory. Medicine generally does not
use theoretical frameworks except when they are applying for federal (US)
funding! In general, Nursing often overuses them or sometimes thinks that
they are more important than the research! There is a happy medium and both
would be improved by working together.
I would be happy to make some specific suggestions if you send your
hypotheses.
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