Consonance theory: A proposed theory of patient satisfaction

ABSTRACT

@#Patient satisfaction with nursing care is an evolving concept and needs further definition and development within the nursing discipline. Consonance Theory of Patient Satisfaction is a proposed theory that was deductively derived through critical review of existing literature on patient satisfaction with nursing care. The basic tenet of this proposed theory states that patient satisfaction is the outcome of the consonance between the patients’ expectations of care and actual care received from the nurse which eventually influences the patients’ health-related outcomes and the institution’s quality of care. This theory recognizes the active role of the patient and the nurse, as well as, their harmonious interaction to achieve their shared goal of none other than patient satisfaction. Hence, this suggested theory provides a pragmatic way of understanding and achieving patient satisfaction as it relates to nursing care.