Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

Using chaos theory: the implications for nursing

Haigh, CA

Authors

CA Haigh



Abstract

Aims of the paper. The purpose of this paper is to review chaos theory and to examine the role that it may have in the discipline of nursing.

Background. In this paper, the fundamental ingredients of chaotic thinking are outlined. The earlier days of chaos thinking were characterized by an almost exclusively physiological focus. By the 21st century, nurse theorists were applying its principles to the organization and evaluation of care delivery with varying levels of success. Whilst the biological use of chaos has focused on pragmatic approaches to knowledge enhancement, nursing has often focused on the mystical aspects of chaos as a concept.

Conclusions. The contention that chaos theory has yet to find a niche within nursing theory and practice is examined. The application of chaotic thinking across nursing practice, nursing research and statistical modelling is reviewed. The use of chaos theory as a way of identifying the attractor state of specific systems is considered and the suggestion is made that it is within statistical modelling of services that chaos theory is most effective.

Citation

Haigh, C. (2002). Using chaos theory: the implications for nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 37(5), 462-469. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2648.2002.02113.x

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Mar 1, 2002
Deposit Date Aug 2, 2007
Journal Journal of Advanced Nursing
Print ISSN 0309-2402
Publisher Wiley
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 37
Issue 5
Pages 462-469
DOI https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2648.2002.02113.x
Keywords Chaos theory, statistical modelling, nursing theory, nursing research
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2648.2002.02113.x


Downloadable Citations