PURPOSE. To describe the need for nursing diagnosis research and a theoretical framework for such research.
DATA SOURCES. A linguistics theory served as the foundation for the theoretical framework.
DATA SYNTHESIS. Reasons for additional nursing diagnosis research are: (a) file names are needed for implementation of electronic health records, (b) international consensus is needed for an international classification, and (c) continuous changes occur in clinical practice. A theoretical framework used by the author is explained.
CONCLUSIONS. Theoretical frameworks provide support for nursing diagnosis research. Linguistics theory served as an appropriate exemplar theory to support nursing ...