Introduction
Merle Mishel (1988), a middle-ranged theorist is known for her research for uncertainty and its management for chronic and life-threatening illnesses. Merriam-Webster (2011) defines uncertainty as; something not being certain; a state or quality of being uncertain: doubt. Mishel (1988) has an uncertainty in illness theory and defined uncertainty as not having the ability to distinguish the meaning associated with illness-related events occurring when the decision maker is unable to assign definite value to objects or events, or is unable to predict outcomes accurately (Mishel, 1988).
McCormick (2002) states that a state of uncertainty is a major component of all illness understandings and it affects psychosocial adaptation and outcomes of disease. Uncertainty is the inability to determine the sense of illness-related events, occurring when the decision maker is unable to assign definite value to objects or events, or is unable to predict outcomes accurately (Mishel, 1988).
Mishel agrees that uncertainty can be
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A better understanding of the concept of uncertainty in illness can help support the nurse in treating multiple levels of uncertainty. This analysis provides information that may benefit providers in becoming more effective in reducing the level of uncertainty that patients feel when diagnosed with an illness as well as assist in informed decision-making. The analysis of uncertainty will establish influences leading to uncertainty, positive and negative outcomes associated with patients experiencing levels of being uncertain, as well as vital attributes of the concept. The importance to best understand the concept of uncertainty, is not only to provide the best practice to patients, however also to efficiently address and treat unexpected circumstances that cause one to feel uncertain in regards to their health within the disease