Theoretical and Conceptual Models Contributions To Advanced Nursing Practice
Virginia Henderson theory, which she referred to as the Nursing Need Theory emphasizes on the substantiality for patient’s independence right after hospitalization so that the healing progress is not delayed (Barker, 2015). According to this theory, a practitioner has to use some 14 components that are required to assess if a patient is doing well. Some of these elements include sleep and rest, good hygiene, eliminate body wastes, maintain body temperature, socializing, and worship according to one's faith amongst others. As an advanced nurse specializing with prostate cancers, it is important to apply these components by conducting assessments and writing reports (Broadbent, 2014). I would apply this theory to address all the physiological needs of my patient, encourage him to share his strengths, limitation, and concerns with a trusted person and discuss coping strategies.
The theory falls under the totality paradigm because a human being is a combination of physiological, spiritual, social, and biological characteristics continuously interacting with the environment to maintain physiological and emotional balance. The view is preferred in my practice because as a practitioner, one ought to understand that when one component is not functioning well, then the patient is unwell and needs attention (Ahtisham & Jacoline, 2015). In this case, recovering from cancer requires a lot of care and support both from the practitioner, spiritual councilor, and the family.
The theory has guided and further developed my understanding of each meta-paradigm concepts in the following ways;
Person
A patient achieves wholeness by maintaining physiological and emotional balance since the two are inseparable.
Health
The 14 essential components of the human needs are used to determine if a person is in good health because it is equated to independence to perform all activities without aid.
Environment
It is crucial that every nurse should maintain a conducive environment that will increase the chances of independence among patients.
Nursing
My job as the nurse is to keep my client/patient complete, independent, and whole in collaboration with other physicians.
References
Ahtisham, Y., & Jacoline, S. (2015). Integrating Nursing Theory and Process into Practice; Virginia's Henderson Need Theory. International Journal of Caring Sciences, 8(2), 34-86.
Barker, A. M. (2015). Advanced practice nursing. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.
Broadbent, M. (2014). Nursing theories and conceptual frameworks. Fundamentals of nursing, 3rd Australian Edition, 40-56.
