Purpose: To propose a middle range theory (MRT) that establishes the theoretical basis for the nursing diagnosis dysfunctional ventilatory weaning response (DVWR) (00034).
Data sources: Integrative literature review.
Data synthesis: The MRT includes the main concepts, pictorial diagrams, propositions, and causal relationships for use in clinical practice.
Conclusions: The MRT developed for the DVWR allowed us to list 13 clinical antecedent and 21 consequent findings related to this nursing diagnosis that occurs when ventilatory weaning fails.
Implications for nursing practice: The clinical indicators and causal relationships described in the MRT may serve as a basis for nurses to understand the dysfunctional weaning process.
Keywords: Clinical decision-making; clinical judgement; middle range theory; nursing diagnosis.
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