Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms: Critical Analysis

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms according to the model proposed by Walker and Avant. Method: a descriptive-reflexive study developed in the first half of 2016. He used the first five phases proposed by the Walker and Avant model: identification of the origins of the theory; examination of the meaning of the theory; logical adequacy; utility; degree of generalization and parsimony of theory. Results: the study allowed the reflection on the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms, considering the multidimensionality of the symptoms and the potential stimulation between them. It was identified the relations between the main concepts used to construct the theory: physiological, psychological and situational factors, followed by performance, suffering, duration, quality, intensity and unpleasant symptoms. Conclusion: the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms presents a structured theoretical framework, presenting logical meaning, through well-defined concepts and relations, which make possible its use in practice, teaching and nursing research.

Severity, Risk Factors and Quality of Life of Patients associated with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

“…This theory provides assistance to the nurses in identifying several symptoms and devising non-pharmacological interventions for managing them. The Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms describes three main elements: the symptoms that the patient is experiencing; the factors that influence them, and the consequences of that experience (Gomes et al, 2019). Physical, psychological, and situational factors interact with each other, and are related to the unpleasant symptoms.…”

Cluster de sintomas: manejo e práticas avançadas em enfermagem oncológica

“…Os fatores fisiológicos, psicológicos e situacionais se relacionam entre si e influenciam o conceito anterior. Quanto mais fatores relacionados aos sintomas, maior será o impacto no desempenho/funcionalidade (18)(19) . Porém, a ênfase da TSD é nos sintomas físicos, com menor expressão dos psicológicos, o que pode ser considerada uma desvantagem ou limitação desta teoria (10) .…”

Symptom cluster: management and advanced practices in oncology nursing

“…Physiological, psychological, and situational factors are related to each other and influence the previous concept. The more factors related to the effects of the illness, the greater the effect impact on performance (18)(19) . However, TUS focus on physical symptoms, with less expression of psychological ones, which may be considered a disadvantage or limitation of this theory (10) .…”

“…Patient outcomes are the results of symptom experience and management, including functioning, quality of life, costs, and morbidity. Each component can affect and be affected by the others (19) . The concept of cluster has recently been introduced into this theoretical model, but the relationship between the multiple cluster symptoms and the elements of the theoretical model are not fully established.…”