Philosophy is defined as ‘the meaning of life, considering topics and questions surrounding human existence and experience, society, knowledge, and the universe”. In nursing we use our personal philosophy to declare our beliefs, values, and ethics regarding the care and treatment of patients. No one philosophy is the same and each nurse represents their philosophy in their own unique way. I have always viewed nursing as a concept of helping those who may not be able to help themselves, providing care to any and everyone, and putting your best foot forward.
I strive to proudly provide culturally sensitive, empathetic, and holistic care to the best of my ability. This care will be given regardless of race, culture, sexual orientation, financial status, or disability.
I am given the privilege to work with people from all walks of life and provide them with care. It is important that I explore different cultures in order to better understand how the role of culture affects the patient’s health.
Nurses have a responsibility to provide and promote holistic, patient-centered care. It is important that we as nurses remember that our patients are to be viewed as individuals and deserve individualized attention and care. Nurses collaborate with other professions to care for a diverse patient population in order to set goals, make decisions and share resources and responsibilities. Our goal as a team is to provide patients with high quality care and improve patient outcomes.
As advocates, educators, and promotors we can facilitate changes that will benefit not only the patient but the healthcare system as well.
I also have a commitment to remain knowledgeable in current advancements and skills. Remaining up to date assures that I am giving my patients the best care possible through evidence-based practice. My person values and beliefs include but are not limited to positive work ethic, being loving, optimistic, family, and lifelong learning. These values and beliefs play an important role on how I live my everyday life. The qualities that make me a good nurse doesn’t stop when I clock out, they are a part of me eternally and are with me wherever I go.
Jean Watson developed the Theory of Human Caring/Caring Science in the late 1970s. As described by Crossetti, Riegel, and Siqueira (2018): Watson’s human care theory says that it is essential for the society to maintain the ideals of human care. This is relevant since, daily, there is a proliferation of treatments and radical healing techniques that commonly disregard the human aspects that involve authentic care. Watson’s theory holds core principles in the practice of loving-kindness, enabling deep belief of others, cultivation of one’s own spiritual practice toward wholeness of mind/body/spirit, creating a caring-healing environment, and openness to the unexpected and inexplicable life events.
In Watson’s human care theory ten carative factors were developed specific to human experiences that nurses should address: humanistic and altruistic values system; installation of faith and hope, cultivation of sensitivity to oneself and others; development of a helping-trusting relationship; expression of positive and negative feelings; systematic use of problem-solving method; transpersonal teaching and learning; supportive, protective and/or corrective mental, physical, socio-cultural and spiritual environment; assistance with the gratification of human needs, opening and attending to unknown existential dimensions. These ten carative factors emphasize that a person’s being should be valued and deserves respect and compassion. Nurses should have a caring attitude and be able to establish rapport with patients. All contact should reflect professionalism and care for individual problems and not seen as just standard work.
Watson’s theory relates to me because I believe in the moral commitment to protect and enhance human dignity with caring and conscious intentions. I not only make sure my patients are taken care of, but I also involve family members into my care practices by developing a helping and trusting relationship. I treat others with kindness and demonstrate respect for self and others. I incorporate others’ values, beliefs, and what is meaningful and important to them into their care. Promotion of direct, constructive, and respectful communication is also an intuitive measure I practice. In the end I also make sure I take care of myself, explore my own feelings, beliefs, and values for self-growth and practice self-reflection.
The pursuit to further my education started when I began preceptorship at my workplace. During that time, I would train new hires on hospital policy, patient care, and protocol. I was honored that I was able to use my knowledge to teach others. I also realized that I wanted a deeper knowledge in medicine. Although I may have extensive knowledge related to my field of work, I knew there was much more to learn. With an increased education I will be better equipped to help influence positive change in the health care system.
Nursing theory and nursing philosophy are directly related to how nurses care for their patients and the skills we acquire. Nursing education and personal/professional experience are key elements to becoming proficient nurses. I am thankful that my career allows me to remain knowledgeable and brings new opportunities and experiences. The more experience and continuing education we as nurses have, the more beneficial we are to our patients.
Nursing Philosophy Meaning Of Life. (2021, Dec 19). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/nursing-philosophy-meaning-of-life/