Barnum (1990)described early nursing theories: "A high number of [boundary] overlaps occur in the discipline of nursing because it often attempts to deal holistically with a phenomenon (man)that has previously been dealt with in compartmentalized ways by other disciplines."

Boundary Overlaps

Situations where the edges of different domains, systems, or responsibilities intersect or blur, creating areas of shared or ambiguous jurisdiction.

Holistically

An approach that considers all aspects or parts of something as interconnected and integral to its overall understanding or functioning.

Phenomenon

An observable event or fact, especially one that is unusual, important, or otherwise notable.