A nursing theory is best described as what?

A nursing theory is best described as a system of relationships among ideas and concepts because it provides a structured way to understand complex phenomena within the nursing field. This system of relationships helps to organize knowledge and insights about nursing practice, guiding educators, researchers, and practitioners in their work.

By articulating the connections between various elements such as patient care, health outcomes, and nursing interventions, a nursing theory enables practitioners to make informed decisions based on a coherent set of principles. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of how different factors influence patient health and can lead to the development of effective practices and interventions.

Other options touch on aspects of nursing practice but do not capture the essence of a nursing theory as comprehensively. A hypothesis, for instance, pertains to a specific prediction that can be empirically tested rather than a broader system of interrelated concepts. Similarly, a framework for improving patient satisfaction and guidelines for ethical treatment, while important, represent specific applications or considerations within the broader scope that a nursing theory encompasses.