Watson’s Caring Theory, the Philosophy and Science of Caring, states that nursing is a human science that addresses the nature of human caring. Its core is that “humans cannot be treated as objects and that humans cannot be separated from self, other, nature, and the larger workforce” (Spilsbury, 2011). The components of the theory are carative factors, caring moments, and a transpersonal caring relationship.
There are ten carative factors, the first three that are the philosophical foundation for the science of caring, and the last seven that are derived from that foundation (Petiprin, 2016). These ten carative factors represent the core of caring. They are seen as nurse-patient interactions and modalities that can be employed to support and enhance the experience of the actual caring occasion. Watson later developed the ten carative factors into ten Caritas processes, which together with the carative factors, facilitate honor, wholeness, and contribute to the evolution of humanity.
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The Transpersonal Caring Relationship puts weight on the humanistic aspects of nursing, combined with scientific knowledge. The relationship describes how a nurse goes beyond an objective assessment to show concern towards their patient’s concerns for their health. Therefore, the nurse’s caring consciousness is crucial for nurse-patient connection and understanding of the patient’s perspectives. On the other hand, a caring occasion refers to when the nurse and their patient come together in a way that creates an opportunity for human caring.
Watson’s caring theory is a grand theory because it gives a broad scope to the field of nursing, and presents general concepts and propositions that are essential in nursing practice, as evidenced by its adoption as the framework for United States University College of Nursing’s programs.
References
Petiprin, A. (2016). Jean Watson Nursing Theory. Retrieved from http://www.nursing-theory.org/theories-and-models/watson-philosophy-and-science-of-caring.php
Spilsbury, L. (2011). Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring | Hospital in Redlands, CA. Retrieved from https://www.redlandshospital.org/nursing-excellence/jean-watsons-theory-of-human-caring/
