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• Enhanced Recovery: Studies have shown that caring interactions can positively influence physiological processes, such as reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system, which can contribute to faster and more complete recovery.  
• Improved Quality of Life: Caring interactions can improve a patient’s overall quality of life by enhancing their sense of well-being, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, and promoting a more positive outlook.  

Three Structural Criteria for Evaluating Middle-Range Theories

Middle-range theories bridge the gap between grand theories and specific research questions. Three key structural criteria for evaluating these theories are:  

1. Clarity and Precision: A well-developed middle-range theory should be clearly defined and free from ambiguity. Its concepts and propositions should be precisely stated and easily understood.

2. Internal Consistency: The theory should be internally consistent, meaning that its concepts and propositions should logically connect and not contradict each other. There should be no internal contradictions or inconsistencies within the framework of the theory.

3. Testability: A crucial aspect of a useful theory is its testability. It should be possible to empirically test the propositions and hypotheses derived from the theory. This allows researchers to gather evidence to support or refute the theory, leading to its refinement and further development.

By meeting these criteria, middle-range theories provide a valuable framework for guiding research, informing clinical practice, and advancing our understanding of complex phenomena in healthcare.