A Nursing theory refers to knowledge-based conceptual statements that explain the relationship between two ideologies within the scope of nursing practice. The scope includes the constitutes of nursing and the roles of nurses (Smith, 2019). Nursing theories are essential in developing nursing practice. On the other hand, a nursing conceptual model describes a specific idea of a nursing theory (Grand Canyon University, 2018). It is basically the organizational structure that defines a nursing theory.
An example of a nursing theory is Jean Watson's theory of human caring. The theory is concerned with how nurses should care for the patients. The theory opines that nursing is apprehensive with health promotion, patient care, prevention of illness, and restoration of health (Watson & Woodward, 2020). It stresses the humanistic aspects of nursing and their intertwining with scientific knowledge in nursing practice. Thus, it promotes both the treatment of disease and promotion of health. The theory opines that a holistic care is essential in nursing practice. Watson based the theory on the belief that patient care promotes health better than medical care (Watson & Woodward, 2020). The theory has ten carative factors, whereby the first three factors form the philosophical foundation of the theory, while the others are developed from the philosophical foundation.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
An example of where nurses can apply Watson's theory: consider a case whereby a woman who lives away from her family visits the hospital for a mastectomy surgery. In this case, a nurse should apply Watson's theory in caring for this woman by first establishing a connection with the patient by reassuring her that the nurse is there to address her needs and fears. In addition, since mastectomy is a life-changing operation, the nurse should prepare the woman for the challenges and changes she will face after the operation. By doing this, the nurse will have expressed the humanistic approach in caring for the woman, which is in line with Watson’s theory.
References
Grand Canyon University (Ed). (2018). Dynamics in nursing: Art & science of professional practice. Grand Canyon University . https://lc.gcumedia.com/nrs430v/dynamics-in-nursing-art-and-science-of-professional-practice/v1.1/
Smith, M. C. (2019). Nursing theories and nursing practice . FA Davis.
Watson, J., & Woodward, T. K. (2020). Jean Watson's theory of human caring . SAGE Publications Limited.
