Applying the "Model of recovering alcoholics' behavior stages and goal setting" to nursing practice.

In 1990, the author developed the Model of Recovering Alcoholics' Behavior Stages and Goal Setting as a result of grounded theory research. The model explains the natural progression of recovery through four behavior stages. Each stage is characterized by specific patient goals. Application of the model provides a framework for nursing care planning that is both stage-focused and patient-centered. In this article, the author discusses nursing intervention in relation to the model.