ADVANTAGES OF KING'S THEORY
King's theory of goal attainment is appropriate
for nursing the diabetic individual in the outpatient
setting. Diabetes is a chronic illness
which requires the patient to assume responsibility
for the daily implementation of a recommended
regimen. King's theory involves the
collaboration of patient and nurse in setting
mutual goals and strategies for goal attainment.
Perhaps this patient participation may lead to
increased commitment to self-care.
King's framework for nursing includes the
individual, the group and family. Inclusion of
these three systems is important. The diabetic
nurse deals with the individual during the initial
assessment, and with a group of patients in
patient education sessions. The family is also an
important recipient of nursing care, because this
system is affected when one of its members is
chronically ill (Wright & Leahey 1984). King's
definition of health is another component of