Assignment Question
This assignment focuses on the student’s personal perspective of nursing and nursing theory within the profession. This Word document should include your personal philosophy of nursing. If you have not developed a philosophy of nursing, then consider these questions to help you. What is nursing to me? Why is nursing important to me? What nursing theory do I feel best guides my nursing practice? What are the qualities, skills, and values of a nurse? How do I intend to personally impact society through my nursing career?
Answer
Introduction
Nursing as a profession holds a distinctive significance, intertwining care, science, and compassion. At its core, nursing is the art of caring for individuals, families, and communities, encompassing a dynamic interplay between scientific knowledge and the compassionate delivery of healthcare. The profession is a tapestry of multifaceted roles, from bedside caregivers to educators, advocates, and researchers. Personal philosophies in nursing serve as the lighthouse, guiding each practitioner through the complex maze of healthcare, instilling values of empathy, respect, and ethical practice. They are the cornerstone upon which the foundation of nursing practice is built, shaping the very essence of the nurse-patient relationship and profoundly influencing the quality of care delivered.
What is Nursing to Me?
To me, nursing embodies a profound commitment to holistic care. It’s not just a profession; it’s a vocation that merges scientific knowledge with compassionate care. Nursing, to me, is the embodiment of empathy, providing comfort, advocating for patients, and promoting their well-being. According to Smith (2018), nursing is defined as a dynamic and caring relationship between the nurse and the patient, aiming to promote health and prevent illness.
Why is Nursing Important to Me?
Nursing’s importance resonates in its ability to touch lives, providing solace, care, and guidance during vulnerable moments. It is the bridge between science and humanity, enabling a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. As highlighted by Johnson (2019), nursing is crucial due to its role in advocating for patient needs, ensuring quality care delivery, and contributing to the health system’s efficiency.
Guiding Nursing Theory
Among the multitude of nursing theories, the one that resonates most with my practice is the Humanistic Nursing Theory. The emphasis on patient-centered care, acknowledging individuality, and respecting human dignity aligns with my values and influences how I approach patient care. According to Potter and Perry (2020), the Humanistic Nursing Theory emphasizes the holistic approach to care, focusing on the uniqueness of each individual and the promotion of human dignity and well-being.
Qualities, Skills, and Values of a Nurse
The qualities, skills, and values pivotal to nursing encompass a blend of empathy, critical thinking, adaptability, and continuous learning. The ability to communicate effectively, remain compassionate, and exhibit resilience in challenging situations are indispensable traits. As outlined by White et al. (2017), nurses should possess ethical decision-making skills, a strong work ethic, empathy, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Impact on Society through Nursing
My aspiration is to contribute positively to society by providing optimal patient care, educating individuals to promote health literacy, and advocating for healthcare equality. I aim to partake in community health programs and initiatives that enhance health outcomes. According to Black and Chitty (2021), nurses play a vital role in promoting health education, preventive care, and community health initiatives, thus significantly impacting society’s well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, nursing is not merely a profession but a calling that demands a blend of science, empathy, and advocacy. It is a sacred covenant with humanity, an oath to alleviate suffering, promote health, and safeguard the dignity of every patient. Crafting a personal philosophy in nursing is vital in guiding practice, upholding values, and ensuring the provision of quality care. It is the North Star that keeps nurses grounded, reminding them of their commitment to the art and science of healing and their profound impact on the lives they touch. It is through these personal philosophies that nursing continues to evolve and thrive, providing a beacon of hope and comfort in the realm of healthcare.
References
Black, B. P., & Chitty, K. K. (2021). Professional nursing: Concepts & challenges (9th ed.). Elsevier.
Johnson, M. (2019). Nursing: A concept-based approach to learning. Pearson.
Potter, P. A., & Perry, A. G. (2020). Fundamentals of nursing. Elsevier.
Smith, M. C. (2018). Jean Watson’s theory of human caring. In M. C. Smith (Ed.), Nursing theories and nursing practice (5th ed., pp. 331-345). F.A. Davis Company.
White, J., Zaccagnini, M. E., & White, L. (2017). The doctor of nursing practice essentials. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does a personal philosophy of nursing entail?
A personal philosophy of nursing encapsulates one’s individual beliefs, values, and principles that guide their practice and approach to patient care.
2. How do I define the significance of nursing in my personal philosophy?
Nursing holds significance in providing compassionate care, bridging the gap between science and humanity, and making a positive impact on individuals and communities.
3. Can you recommend a nursing theory that best aligns with personal practice?
The Humanistic Nursing Theory, emphasizing patient-centered care and respecting individual dignity, might resonate with those who value a holistic approach to nursing.
4. What are the crucial qualities and skills of a nurse in a personal philosophy of nursing?
Essential qualities include empathy, critical thinking, adaptability, effective communication, and resilience in challenging situations. Key skills encompass ethical decision-making and a commitment to continuous learning.
5. How can a nurse impact society through their career?
Nurses can impact society by providing optimal patient care, educating communities, advocating for healthcare equality, and actively participating in health initiatives and programs.
