Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate, analyze and critique the conceptual model for symptom management based on the steps outlined by Fawcett in 2013, and to show the relevance of this academic exercise in the field of research, both at the academic level and in terms of nursing care.

Materials and methods:

A systematic search of pieces of research was conducted and they were subject to a critical reading process through the application of a series of tools; namely, the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CAPS) for qualitative pieces of research, the MacMaster University Critical Review for Quantitative Studies, and the methodological rigor and theoretical-empirical conceptual structure proposed by Fawcett in 2013. This guaranteed the quality of the selected pieces of research.

Results:

It was possible to identify the approaches featured in the conceptual model for symptom management and the studies in which it has been used. This process provided a kind of theoretical framework for evaluating and commenting on the model. It took into account the origins of the model, its unique approach, and logical congruence, generation of theory, its credibility and its contributions to the discipline of nursing, all of which pertain to the steps recommended by Fawcett for a critical evaluation of conceptual models.

Conclusion:

Despite being a new conceptual model, it has a strong theoretical and philosophical footing that enables it to be applied to any phenomenon related to symptoms experience. However, more research should be done using the aspects focused on "components of symptom management strategies" and "results," since a large volume of the research done so far has made use of the "systems experience" dimension.

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