Discuss the concept of personhood as used in the nursing as caring theory.
Submission Instructions:
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
Due Wednesday June 12 at 11:59pm
Concept of Personhood in the Nursing as Caring Theory
The Nursing as Caring theory, developed by Anne Boykin and Savina Schoenhofer, is a middle-range nursing theory that emphasizes the essence of nursing as a nurturing and caring relationship. Central to this theory is the concept of personhood, which is seen as a fundamental aspect of human beings and a pivotal focus for nursing practice. Personhood is not merely about the physical existence of an individual but encompasses the totality of human experience, including the spiritual, emotional, social, and psychological dimensions. This holistic view underscores the significance of recognizing and nurturing the personhood of both the patient and the nurse within the therapeutic relationship.
Understanding Personhood
Personhood, according to Boykin and Schoenhofer, is an inherent quality that every individual possesses. It is the essence of being human and is characterized by the capacity to engage in meaningful relationships and express care. Personhood is viewed as an ongoing process of becoming, shaped by the individual’s interactions and experiences within their environment. It is not static but dynamic, evolving over time as individuals grow and develop.
Core Aspects of Personhood in Nursing as Caring
- Uniqueness and Individuality: Every person is unique and should be recognized and treated as such. In nursing practice, this means acknowledging the distinct experiences, values, and needs of each patient. The nurse’s role is to honor this uniqueness and provide care that is tailored to the individual’s specific circumstances.
- Holistic Care: Personhood encompasses all aspects of an individual’s life. The Nursing as Caring theory advocates for holistic care, which addresses not just the physical health of patients but also their emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. This comprehensive approach ensures that all facets of a person’s health are considered and cared for.
- Mutuality in Relationships: Central to the concept of personhood is the idea of mutuality in relationships. The nurse-patient relationship is seen as a partnership where both parties engage in a caring interaction. This mutual engagement fosters a deeper understanding and connection, allowing for more effective and compassionate care.
- Dignity and Respect: Recognizing personhood involves treating individuals with dignity and respect. This means valuing their autonomy, beliefs, and preferences, and involving them in decision-making processes related to their care. By doing so, nurses can empower patients and support their sense of self-worth and agency.
Application in Nursing Practice
The application of personhood in nursing practice involves several key strategies:
- Personalized Care Plans: Developing care plans that are customized to the individual needs and preferences of patients. This requires thorough assessment and active listening to understand the unique aspects of each patient’s personhood.
- Empathetic Communication: Engaging in empathetic communication that fosters trust and rapport. This involves being present, actively listening, and responding to patients in a way that acknowledges their experiences and emotions.
- Cultural Competence: Recognizing and respecting cultural differences and how they influence personhood. Nurses should be culturally competent and sensitive to the diverse backgrounds and values of their patients.
- Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive environment that nurtures the personhood of patients. This includes providing emotional support, encouraging social interactions, and facilitating spiritual care when needed.
Conclusion
The concept of personhood in the Nursing as Caring theory emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing the holistic nature of human beings. It calls for a compassionate, personalized approach to nursing that values the uniqueness of each individual and fosters meaningful, mutual relationships. By integrating the principles of personhood into practice, nurses can provide care that is not only effective but also deeply respectful and empowering for their patients.
References
Boykin, A., & Schoenhofer, S. O. (2001). Nursing as caring: A model for transforming practice. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Watson, J. (2008). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring. University Press of Colorado.
Erickson, H. C., Tomlin, E. M., & Swain, M. A. (2009). Modeling and Role-Modeling: A Theory and Paradigm for Nursing. Mosby.