Answer

According to Connelly, 2014, the theoretical and conceptual frameworks are very similar as a theory is a conglomerate of related concepts formed into a hypothesis. These associated concepts assist in developing the research problem, coming up with intervention measures as well as informs the direction of our research study. As per Green, 2014, the theoretical framework is different from the conceptual framework as the conceptual framework is developed from multiple sources, while the theoretical frameworks get composed from just one theory. The conceptual framework is also mostly presented diagrammatically, which aids in shaping up the research ideas. Green, 2014, gave out the grounded theory as an example of a theoretical framework, where much of the theory related to the research gets its basis from the data. The conceptual framework forms the building block of the theory. They are as well measurable and are the variables of the study.

In my review, I found that most of the theories used resemble middle range theories providing an incomplete view of the nursing reality. The existing work does not cite particular theories, thus being compared to middle-range approaches as they can be applied directly to nursing practice. They also focus on specifics of a problem or condition and the methods of bringing change. According to Green,2014, the researchers fail to make the conceptual and theoretical frameworks explicit in the way these frameworks guided their research studies. It is not, however, to mean that they never had such frameworks.

In my research study, the concepts relate to staff education. The educated staff will be in a position to identify the patients who are under high risk of malnutrition. It will get based on weight as well as a nutritional screening tool. Based on these identifiers, a dietary consult can get placed so that the patient and staff can know what patients need to eat to have an adequate nutritional status. Documentation will be provided so that nurses, physicians, and dieticians are aware of patients' intake. Adjustments can be made accordingly, and once discharged, the patients would be trained and provided with the necessary resources so as continue on a proper diet.

References

Connelly, L. M. (2014). Use of theoretical frameworks in research. MEDSURG Nursing, 23(3), 187-188

Green, H. E. (2014). Use of theoretical and conceptual frameworks in qualitative research. Nurse Researcher, 21(6), 34-38

Increased morbidity and mortality

Increased length of stay

Increased number of re-admissions

Inadequate Education of Clinical Staff and Patients

Proper Education of Clinical Staff and Patients

Poor clinical outcomes

No standardized screening tool

Inadequate documentation

Malnutrition

Patients are identified later than anticipated, delaying proper nutrition

Decreased length of stay

Decreased morbidity and mortality

Decreased # of readmissions

Identifying high risk patients

Proper education on nutrition for patients after discharge

Early Dietary Referrals

Adequate Screening of Patients on Admission and during hospitalization

Conceptual Framework