Nursing Philosophy Is The Core Of Nursing Practice
Nursing Philosophy Is The Core Of Nursing Practiceit Is A Perspectiv
Nursing philosophy is the core of nursing practice. It is a perspective that I feel can differ from nurse to nurse based off of their views and experiences. According to Poliforni, “a philosophy will deem some ideas correct, others inconsistent, and some simply wrong” (pg. 3). Philosophies are ever changing and can be proven right or wrong. The important thing is to be able to adapt and change views when it means putting patient's first.
Whether a registered nurse, or an advanced practice nurse, consistency of actions is key for patients. I believe a key value to nursing philosophies is empathy. Without empathy, it is very difficult to be able to be a patient advocate. Having the ability to put oneself in a patient’s shoes, and really understand what they are going through, is a philosophy I would like to strive for as an advanced practice nurse. “One of the basic building blocks of ethics and ethical conduct towards others is empathy” (Dinikins 2011).
In conclusion, nursing is a profession where something new is learned every day. Not one day is the same as another. Being able to adapt a philosophy and include empathy for my patients is something I intend on practicing as an advanced practice nurse.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
Nursing philosophy underscores the values, beliefs, and principles that guide nursing practice. It provides a framework for nurses to deliver compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care. As a foundational element, a nursing philosophy shapes how nurses perceive their roles, interact with patients, and respond to challenging situations. This essay explores the significance of nursing philosophy, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and empathy in advancing nursing practice, particularly at the level of an advanced practice nurse.
The Role and Evolution of Nursing Philosophy
Nursing philosophy is inherently personal yet universally vital. It varies among nurses based on individual experiences, cultural backgrounds, education, and personal values. Yet, despite this diversity, certain core elements remain consistent, such as the commitment to patient welfare and ethical standards. According to Poliforni (2018), philosophies evolve over time, influenced by new research, societal changes, and personal growth. The dynamic nature of nursing philosophy requires practitioners to be adaptable, continuously reassessing and refining their perspectives to serve patients best.
Empathy: The Heart of Nursing Practice
Among the core values in nursing philosophy, empathy emerges as paramount. Empathy allows nurses to understand and share the feelings of their patients, fostering trust and cooperation. In clinical settings, empathy translates into more nuanced patient assessments, personalized care plans, and improved patient satisfaction. Denikins (2011) asserts that empathy is a fundamental component of ethical conduct and interpersonal relations, serving as a cornerstone for patient advocacy. For advanced practice nurses, who often assume leadership roles in complex clinical environments, empathy becomes even more critical. It ensures that care remains patient-centered, honoring individual preferences and cultural considerations.
Adapting Philosophies in a Dynamic Healthcare Environment
The healthcare landscape is constantly changing due to technological advancements, evolving patient needs, and shifts in policy. Consequently, nurses must develop a flexible philosophy that accommodates these changes. Adaptability involves ongoing education, reflective practice, and openness to new ideas and approaches. An adaptable philosophy enables nurses to incorporate evidence-based practices while maintaining ethical integrity and compassion.
Applying Philosophy to Advanced Practice Nursing
For advanced practice nurses (APNs), philosophy influences clinical decision-making, leadership, and policy advocacy. APNs frequently encounter complex ethical dilemmas and require a well-defined yet adaptable personal philosophy to navigate these challenges effectively. Developing a nursing philosophy rooted in empathy and flexibility enhances patient outcomes and professional satisfaction. Moreover, it reinforces the moral obligation to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote health equity (ANA, 2015).
The Significance of Continual Growth and Reflection
Continuing education, mentorship, and reflective practice are essential for nurturing a robust nursing philosophy. Reflection allows nurses to evaluate their attitudes, biases, and approaches, fostering growth and authenticity. Such self-awareness reinforces empathy and ethical integrity, ensuring that care remains aligned with core nursing values. As Browne and Rhode (2018) emphasize, reflection is vital for translating philosophical principles into everyday practice, ultimately benefiting patients and the healthcare system.
Conclusion
In sum, a nursing philosophy serves as the guiding light of professional conduct. It must be adaptable, embracing change and growth, especially in the dynamic context of modern healthcare. Empathy stands out as a central value that sustains the humanistic core of nursing. As I strive to become an advanced practice nurse, I am committed to developing and continuously refining my philosophy, ensuring that patient care remains compassionate, ethical, and responsive to every individual's needs. Embracing a flexible and empathetic philosophy will enable me to meet the diverse challenges of nursing practice and uphold the dignity of those I serve.
References
- American Nurses Association (ANA). (2015). Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements. ANA.
- Browne, S., & Rhode, J. (2018). Reflective Practice in Nursing. Nursing Education Perspectives, 39(6), 321-324.
- Denikins, C. (2011). Ethics: Beyond Patient Care: Practicing Empathy in the Workplace. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 16(2).
- Poliforni, C.E. (2018). Chapter 1. In J. B. Butts & K. L. Rich (Eds.), Philosophies and Theories for Advanced Nursing Practice (3rd ed., pp. 3-18). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Learning.