This Written Assignment Will Allow You To Reflect On Your Be
This written assignment will allow you to reflect on your beliefs about nursing
This written assignment will allow you to reflect on your beliefs about nursing. Writing your philosophy of nursing will reveal your professional and personal growth over time as you compare previous versions of your philosophy. Think about the following before you start writing your paper. You have learned about various theoretical works in nursing including Nightingale's Environmental Theory, Jean Watson's Philosophy and Science of Caring, Orem's Self-Care Deficit Theory of Nursing, among others. Which nursing theory most closely matches your beliefs?
Why are philosophies of nursing, conceptual models, grand theories, and middle-range theories important to nursing? Why did you choose nursing as your profession? What do you believe is the core of nursing? What is the focus of nursing? To live out your philosophy, what should you keep in mind about your patients, families, environment?
Instructions: This paper reflects your own values and worldview, therefore there are no right or wrong answers. The paper must be written in APA style. It should be between 5-7 pages, excluding the cover page and references. Address the following topics in your paper:
- Your educational and professional background, reasons for returning to school, current practice specialty, and professional goals.
- Individuals who have influenced your views about nursing.
- Your philosophy of nursing.
- Nursing metaparadigm: your definition of nursing, human beings, the environment, and health.
- Your beliefs: Is healthcare a right or privilege?
- The roles of the nurse.
- Your thoughts about nursing education.
- Trends and current issues affecting nursing.
- Where is nursing going? What can you do to advance nursing?
Paper For Above instruction
As a registered nurse committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care, I have developed a personal philosophy that integrates foundational nursing theories with my own values and experiences. My educational journey, professional roles, and personal influences have all played crucial parts in shaping my understanding of what it means to be a nurse and the core principles guiding my practice.
Educational and Professional Background
I embarked on my nursing career through an associate degree program, motivated by a desire to serve and make a tangible difference in patients’ lives. Over the years, my practical experience in medical-surgical units, along with pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), has deepened my understanding of holistic patient care. Currently, I specialize in critical care nursing, which requires quick decision-making, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of complex physiological conditions. My professional goals include advancing my education through a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to assume leadership roles and contribute to policy development.
Influences on My Views about Nursing
Throughout my career, I have been influenced by celebrated nursing theorists such as Florence Nightingale, Jean Watson, and Dorothea Orem. Nightingale’s emphasis on environmental factors and sanitation resonated with my understanding of the importance of a healing environment. Watson’s caring theory aligns with my belief that genuine compassion and human connection are central to effective nursing. Orem’s self-care model emphasizes empowering patients, a concept I find fundamental to promoting health and independence.
My Philosophy of Nursing
I believe that nursing is a caring science dedicated to promoting health, preventing illness, and alleviating suffering. It is rooted in a holistic approach that considers the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of individuals. Nursing is both an art and a science; it requires scientific knowledge, empathy, and ethical integrity. The core of nursing is the nurse-patient relationship, built on trust, respect, and compassionate communication.
Nursing Metaparadigm
Definition of Nursing: Nursing is a caring discipline that involves the promotion of health, prevention of disease, and the care of ill and vulnerable individuals. It encompasses a holistic approach tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Human Beings: I view human beings as holistic beings with physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. I believe that health is a dynamic state influenced by multiple factors and that each individual deserves respect, dignity, and personalized care.
Environment: The environment includes the physical, social, cultural, and spiritual surroundings that influence health. A clean, safe, and supportive environment fosters healing and well-being.
Health: Health is a dynamic, subjective state of well-being that extends beyond the absence of disease. It involves physical vitality, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and social connectedness.
Beliefs: Healthcare as a Right or Privilege
I firmly believe that healthcare is a fundamental human right. Access to quality health services should not be contingent upon socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or geographic location. Ensuring equitable healthcare aligns with the ethical principles of justice and beneficence embedded in nursing practice.
Roles of the Nurse
In my view, nurses serve multiple essential roles, including caregiver, advocate, educator, researcher, and leader. As a caregiver, I provide holistic support to patients and their families. As an advocate, I ensure patients’ rights and preferences are respected. Education involves empowering patients with knowledge to make informed decisions. Leadership entails contributing to healthcare improvements and policy changes.
Thoughts About Nursing Education
I believe ongoing education is vital for maintaining competence and adapting to evolving healthcare challenges. Professional development fosters critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and cultural competence. Nursing education should prioritize leadership, interprofessional collaboration, and technological proficiency to prepare nurses for future roles.
Current Trends and Issues in Nursing
Current issues include nursing shortages, technological advancements, healthcare policy reforms, and increasing emphasis on patient-centered care. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of preparedness, resilience, and the need for systemic change in healthcare delivery. Nursing excellence increasingly depends on diversity, inclusion, and addressing social determinants of health.
The Future of Nursing and How to Advance the Profession
The future of nursing involves greater integration of technology, expanded roles in primary care, and leadership in health policy. To advance nursing, I plan to pursue advanced education, participate in professional organizations, and engage in lifelong learning. Advocating for policy reforms that promote workforce development and equitable access to care will be essential for shaping a sustainable future for nursing.
In conclusion, my philosophy of nursing is rooted in compassion, holistic care, and advocacy. By continuously reflecting on my principles and staying informed about industry trends, I aim to provide exemplary care and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the nursing profession.
References
- Nightingale, F. (1859). Notes on Nursing: What It Is and What It Is Not. Harrison.
- Watson, J. (2008). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring (Rev. ed.). University Press of Colorado.
- Orem, D. E. (2001). Nursing: Concepts of Practice (6th ed.). Mosby.
- American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements. ANA.
- Institute of Medicine. (2010). The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. National Academies Press.
- Benner, P. (1984). From Novice to Expert: Excellence and Power in Clinical Nursing Practice. Prentice-Hall.
- Peplau, H. E. (1952). Interpersonal Relations in Nursing. G.P. Putnam’s Sons.
- Holloway, J. (2015). Leading Healthcare Change: A Guide to Systems Change and Quality Improvement. Radcliffe Publishing.
- Selander, J., & Sörensen, M. (2018). Trends in Nursing Education: Preparing Nurses for Future Challenges. International Journal of Nursing Education.
- World Health Organization. (2020). State of the World’s Nursing 2020: Investing in Education, Jobs, and Leadership. WHO.