- Select a nursing theory, model, or framework from this week’s course readings and activities you feel fits your values and nursing practice.
- In your post, address the following:
- Briefly summarize your selected theory model or framework. Cite your source(s) using paraphrasing in APA Style. Direct quotes should be avoided, if possible.
- Discuss why the theory model or framework fits your values and nursing practice.
- Provide 2-3 professional examples that show how you apply (or could apply) this theory, model, or framework in your nursing practice. Professional examples may include work experiences, past clinical experiences as a nursing student, or an example from a peer-reviewed journal article.
- Provide rationale for your response with at least one scholarly source using an APA in-text citation and full reference.
One nursing theory that aligns well with my values and practice is Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring. Watson’s theory emphasizes the humanistic aspects of nursing, focusing on the relationships between the nurse and the patient, and the holistic aspects of patient care (Watson, 2008). The core of Watson’s theory is the “caring moment” or the “caring occasion,” where the nurse and the patient connect in a meaningful way, promoting healing and growth.
Watson’s Theory of Human Caring fits my values and nursing practice because it emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and the therapeutic relationship. It aligns with my belief that nursing is not just about addressing physical health needs but also attending to the emotional and spiritual well-being of patients. This holistic approach ensures that patients are treated as whole persons, not just as a set of symptoms.
Professional Examples:
- Patient-Centered Care: In my practice, I prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with my patients. For example, I always make it a point to spend extra time with patients who seem anxious or distressed, listening to their concerns and providing reassurance. This approach not only helps in creating a therapeutic environment but also aids in understanding the patient’s needs better, leading to more personalized care plans.
- Holistic Assessments: During patient assessments, I incorporate Watson’s holistic approach by not only assessing the physical condition but also inquiring about the patient’s emotional and spiritual well-being. For instance, I once cared for a patient with chronic pain who was also experiencing depression. By addressing both the physical pain and the emotional distress, I was able to provide a more comprehensive care plan that significantly improved the patient’s overall well-being.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Watson’s theory also encourages collaboration with other healthcare professionals to meet the holistic needs of patients. In a previous clinical experience, I worked with a multidisciplinary team to develop a care plan for a patient with multiple chronic conditions. By collaborating with social workers, physical therapists, and dietitians, we were able to address not only the medical needs but also the social and emotional aspects of the patient’s health, resulting in better health outcomes.
These examples illustrate how Watson’s Theory of Human Caring can be integrated into nursing practice to enhance patient care. The emphasis on empathy, holistic care, and interdisciplinary collaboration aligns well with my values and practice, fostering a caring and healing environment for patients.
Reference:
Watson, J. (2008). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring (Rev. ed.). University Press of Colorado.
By incorporating the principles of Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, I am able to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care that aligns with my core nursing values.