Application of Neuman’s Framework: Infant Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how Neuman's systems model can be applied to nursing practice and research through the examination of the problem of infant exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. By operationalizing Neuman's framework, it was possible to develop a research-based theory investigating the interaction between the infant's physiological variable and the environment. A nursing process tool and theoretical model developed from Neuman's framework are utilized to examine the problem. Further theory development could identify relationships among Neuman's other variables and create a theoretical basis for providing holistic nursing care to infants exposed to environmental tobacco smoke.

Thoughts about the Neuman Systems Model

“…Thus, many middle-range theories have been generated or tested in the plethora of studies that have been guided by the Neuman systems model (Fawcett & DeSanto-Madeya, 2013;Neuman & Fawcett, 2011). A few explictly named middle-range theories that have been derived from Neuman's systems model are: theory of optimal client system stability (Neuman, 2011), theory of prevention as intervention (Neuman, 2011), theory of optimal student system stability (Lamb, 1999), theory of well-being (Casalenuovo, 2002), theory of infant exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Stepans & Knight, 2002), theory of maternalstudent role stress (Gigliotti, 2007(Gigliotti, , 2011, and theory of adolescent vulnerability to risk behaviors (Cazzell, 2008). JF: Next is another question from NSM trustee Barbara Freese: "What opportunities exist for using the NSM in fields beyond nursing?…”

Smoking Hygiene: Reducing Infant Exposure to Tobacco

“…Neuman's, systems model (Neuman, 2002) was used to examine the problem of infant exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Stepans & Knight, 2002). The model is based on the concept of stress and the reaction to stress.…”

“…The model is based on the concept of stress and the reaction to stress. Current research and knowledge about the physiological effects in infants of exposure to ETS (Figure 1) can be used to direct intervention research on this topic (Stepans & Knight, 2002). Recommendations in the model are directed toward reducing physiologic stressors of infant exposure via both ambient and enteric routes.…”