Analysis Of Mishel's Uncertainty In Illness Theory

Major Assumptions

Once health care professionals have a firm foundation on Mishel’s uncertainty in illness theory, understanding the theory’s assumptions will assist nurses to apply evidence-based practice to real world situations. For example, in Mishel’s reconceptualized version of the theory, the major assumption is related to uncertainty and the way in which individuals function when presented with a chaotic state (Mishel, 2011). A fluctuation in control can create chaos while enhancing an individual’s willingness to change (Alligood, 2014).

Uncertainty occurs when an individual cannot adequately categorize an illness related event because of lack of sufficient cues (Alligood, 2014). This uncertainty in life can take many forms. Mishel describes uncertainty in the form of unpredictability, inconsistent information, complexity, and ambiguity (Alligood, 2014).

Theory in Practice

Mishel’s uncertainty in illness theory has been used repeatly in nursing practice for chronic and acute conditions

The American Nurses Association has a stern recommendation to know the code of ethics for nurses, the ethical framework for MS and all other practice settings (ANA, 2015). Having a solid knowledge base regarding these principles is the key to health care professionals honoring nursing practice activities education, and research (ANA, 2015).

MS nursing practice, education, and research require knowledge of ethical considerations. MS, the disease, does not discriminate and neither should nursing, the profession, in order to advance evidence-based practice and quality nursing care beyond the 21st century. Consequently, an expert nurse today will apply Mishel’s uncertainty in illness theory while considering ethics, personal bias, and multicultural elements of the individual, support person, and community (Alligood,