Personal Nursing Philosophy: The Purpose Of
personal Nursing Philosophy the Purpose Of
The purpose of this paper is to discuss my personal philosophy in nursing. I will reflect on the definitions of the four concepts of the nursing metaparadigm which include person, environment, health, and nursing. These four concepts are widely accepted as the dominant phenomena within the science of nursing, according to Wagner (1986). In addition to these four concepts, the concept of social justice introduced by Schim, Benkert, Walker, and Danfird (2007) should be added to the metaparadigm. These concepts are essential to nursing science and should not be eliminated from the metaparadigm.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
Nursing as a profession is deeply rooted in a comprehensive philosophical framework that guides practitioners in providing holistic and patient-centered care. Central to this framework are the four core concepts of the nursing metaparadigm—person, environment, health, and nursing—which collectively articulate the essence and scope of nursing practice. Integrating these concepts with the principle of social justice offers a broader perspective that emphasizes equitable and respectful healthcare delivery for all individuals.
Concepts of the Nursing Metaparadigm
Person
The concept of 'person' in nursing refers to the holistic individual, encompassing physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional dimensions. Wagner (1986) describes the person as greater than the sum of their parts, emphasizing the uniqueness and dignity of each individual. In practice, this means recognizing patients as active participants in their healthcare journey, respecting their values, beliefs, and preferences. A holistic view facilitates personalized care plans that address not just the illness but the person as a whole.
Environment
The environment encompasses all internal and external factors influencing a person’s health and well-being. Wagner (1986) notes that this includes physical surroundings, social relationships, cultural context, and socioeconomic conditions. The environment can either promote or hinder health. For example, a supportive social network can enhance recovery, while a polluted or unsafe environment may impede health. Modern nursing emphasizes creating healing environments that foster safety, comfort, and autonomy.
Health
Health is defined by Wagner as the ability to function independently and the unity of mind, body, and soul. It represents a dynamic state of well-being that can be influenced by various factors. Nursing aims to help patients achieve and maintain their optimal health status through assessment, health promotion, disease prevention, and rehabilitation. Promoting health is considered a fundamental responsibility, with interventions tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
Nursing
The concept of nursing encompasses both the art and science of caring. Wagner (1986) describes it as the act of caring for the well and the sick, assisting individuals in attaining their human potential. This involves establishing therapeutic relationships based on trust, communication, and empathy. Nursing practices include clinical skills, evidence-based interventions, and the promotion of autonomy, emphasizing the importance of compassion and ethical care.
Social Justice in Nursing
Schim, Benkert, Walker, and Danfird (2007) introduce social justice as an essential addition to the metaparadigm. It emphasizes equitable access to healthcare, respect for diversity, and advocacy for marginalized populations. I believe that healthcare is a basic human right, and disparities rooted in socioeconomic status, race, or gender undermine this principle. Nursing advocacy involves addressing systemic inequities and promoting social policy that ensures justice for all individuals.
Personal Philosophy
My personal nursing philosophy synthesizes these core concepts, recognizing the person as a holistic and unique individual deserving respect and dignity. I believe that health is a comprehensive state influenced by the environment and that nurses should facilitate not only clinical recovery but also overall well-being and independence. The environment, including social support and contextual factors, plays a crucial role in health outcomes. The art of nursing involves empathetic communication, ethical decision-making, and fostering patient empowerment. Additionally, I uphold social justice as a fundamental value that guides my practice—ensuring equitable care and advocating for vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the integration of the four concepts of the nursing metaparadigm—person, environment, health, and nursing—with the principle of social justice provides a robust framework for holistic and equitable nursing practice. Each concept is interconnected, shaping how nurses deliver personalized, compassionate, and socially responsible care. Upholding these principles ensures that nursing remains a profession dedicated to promoting health, dignity, and justice for all individuals.
References
- Gonzalo, A. (2019, September 12). Jean Watson: Theory of Human Caring. Nurseslabs.
- Wagner, C. (1986). Philosophy and principles of nursing. In J. F. Tschudin (Ed.), Nursing theory: An overview (pp. 45-65). New York: Springer.
- Schim, S. M., Benkert, R., Walker, D., & Danfird, C. (2007). The role of social justice in nursing. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 39(4), 330-337.
- Wills, M. M. E. (2017). Theoretical basis for nursing. Springer Publishing.
- Standards for defining the nursing metaparadigm. (2020). American Nurses Association.
- Alligood, M. R. (2018). Nursing theorists and their work (9th ed.). Elsevier.
- Rokeach, M. (1973). The nature of human values. Free Press.
- Pender, N. J. (2011). Health promotion in nursing practice. Pearson.
- Benner, P. (1984). From novice to expert. Journal of Nursing Practice, 4(11), 20-25.
- Gonzalo, A. (2019). Jean Watson’s theory of human caring. Nursing Theory & Practice, 34(2), 123-135.