Development of situation-specific theories: an integrative approach.

One type of "ready-to-wear" theories that can bring about better nursing care outcomes regardless of their philosophical bases is situation-specific theories proposed by Im and Meleis in 1999. In this paper, some propositions for an integrative approach to the development of situation-specific theories are made. First, situation-specific theories are described as practice theories while they are compared with middle-range theories. Then the integrative approach is detailed, which includes (a) checking assumptions for theory development; (b) exploring through multiple sources; (c) theorizing; and (d) reporting, sharing, and validating. Finally, the paper concludes with suggestions for further development of the integrative approach.