Choose Two Concepts In The Theory You Chose Last Week

Choose two concepts in the theory you choose last week and describe

In this discussion, I will explore two concepts from Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring, which I selected based on its relevance to my clinical practice. The focus will be on how these concepts are generally defined, how Watson specifically defines them, and how they manifest in practical nursing settings through concrete examples.

Concept 1: Human Connection and Caring

In nursing literature, the concept of human connection and caring is often viewed as the foundation of therapeutic relationships. According to Boykin and Schoenhofer (2010), caring involves authentic communication, empathy, and the development of trust between nurse and patient. This concept emphasizes that genuine caring relationships promote healing, comfort, and holistic well-being. The National League for Nursing (NLN, 2010) describes caring as a moral ideal that sustains the nurse-patient relationship and enhances patient satisfaction and outcomes.

Jean Watson defines human connection and caring as the core of nursing. She emphasizes that caring is a moral imperative that involves intentional actions to promote the well-being of others. Watson (2008) describes caring as a transformative process where the nurse develops a genuine, empathetic presence with the patient, fostering a state of healing consciousness. This entails being fully present, listening attentively, and demonstrating compassion beyond technical skills.

In clinical practice, this concept manifests through active listening, Establishing rapport, and providing emotional support. For example, during a patient’s post-operative recovery, I focus on making eye contact, providing reassurance, and understanding their emotional and spiritual needs. This kind of human connection fosters trust, which can alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of safety, ultimately facilitating physical healing.

Concept 2: Holistic Approach to Patient Care

General nursing literature describes the holistic approach as considering the physical, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of the patient (Carper, 1978). This concept advocates for viewing the patient as a whole person rather than just an injury or disease entity. It emphasizes the importance of individualized care plans that address all aspects influencing health and healing. The World Health Organization (WHO, 2018) underscores a holistic approach as essential in achieving optimal health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Watson further defines this concept by emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. She advocates for nursing practices that nurture the human spirit and promote harmony within the individual. Watson (2008) emphasizes that holistic caring involves creating a healing environment that respects the patient's beliefs, values, and cultural background, acknowledging that each patient’s needs are unique.

In my clinical practice, applying this concept involves assessing beyond the physical symptoms. For instance, when caring for a patient with a chronic illness, I assess their emotional resilience, cultural beliefs, and spiritual needs. I incorporate practices such as guided imagery, spiritual support, or family involvement to strengthen their sense of wholeness and promote comfort. This approach has been especially beneficial in palliative care, where addressing emotional and spiritual suffering alongside physical symptoms results in improved quality of life.

Conclusion

Jean Watson's concepts of human connection and holistic care profoundly influence my nursing practice. Emphasizing genuine caring relationships and a holistic approach aligns with my belief in patient-centered care that addresses the human experience in totality. Incorporating these concepts into daily practice allows for more compassionate, meaningful interactions, ultimately fostering more effective healing and well-being. Understanding and applying Watson’s concepts help bridge the gap between technical care and compassionate knowing, reinforcing the moral and ethical foundations of nursing.

References

• Boykin, A., & Schoenhofer, S. O. (2010). Nursing as caring: A model for transforming practice. The Journal of Nursing Education, 49(10), 561–568.
• Carper, B. (1978). Fundamental patterns of knowing in nursing. Advances in Nursing Science, 1(1), 13–23.
• National League for Nursing (NLN). (2010). The essentials of caring in nursing.
• Watson, J. (2008). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring (revised edition). University Press of Colorado.
• World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). People-centred and integrated health services. WHO Report.
• Horton-Deutsch, S., & Sherwood, G. (2010). A proposal for relationship-based care from a person-centered perspective. Advances in Nursing Science, 33(2), 86–95.
• Duffy, J. R. (2013). Measuring Meaningfulness in Nursing Work: An Example of a Persons’ Theory of Caring as a Conceptual Framework. Nursing Science Quarterly, 26(2), 164–169.
• Reed, P. G., & McCreary, J. (2004). A theory of caring. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 36(2), 124–130.
• McCance, T., & McKenna, H. (2017). Exploring the application of Watson’s caring science principles to nursing research. Nursing Science Quarterly, 30(3), 235–241.
• Swanson, K. M. (1991). Empirical development of a caring theory. Nursing Research, 40(3), 161–166.