Introduction
Jean Watson can be called one of the leading theorists of nursing. She is the creator of the caring theory, the basis of which is the need to avoid patients’ dehumanization due to the strong bureaucracy in public health (Sitzman, 2019). According to the theory, patient care should be carried out on an interpersonal basis. The human aspect should become the primary characteristic of the entire healthcare process.
Summary of the Theory
Watson’s theory is characterized by several essential aspects that medical personnel must observe when caring for patients. First, it is possible to achieve the effectiveness of patient care only by focusing on the interpersonal level (Smith, 2019). Medical personnel must identify and meet the specific needs of the individual (Sitzman, 2019). Patient care should be aimed at promoting health or helping with personal development. Watson offers a complement in the medical field, suggesting comprehensive patient care (Sitzman, 2019). Finally, the practice and development of the professional are critical to providing effective care.
It is essential to how Jean Watson defines a person; based on this definition, medical personnel should build an approach to the patient. People are valuable by themselves; they are integrated personalities seen as more than just a part of the world (Zerwekh & Garneau, 2020). Patient care is presented not as a simple practice but as an attempt to lead a person to optimal health conditions. Watson’s theory serves as a blueprint for professional nurses, allowing them to contribute to the well-being of patients.
The value of nursing care lies in its focus on the person; it is a unique healing art that complements conventional drug therapy. At the same time, with this new philosophy and theory of human care, Watson seeks to balance the curative focus of medicine (Sitzman, 2019). The researcher highlights nursing as a unique disciplinary, scientific and professional branch in relation to nursing care and public health.
Possible Applications
Modern medical practice appeals to the traditional model of patient care, despite nurses’ workload with documents. A significant part of the original functions of nurses has been lost, as the practice is increasingly occupied with work with registration and accounting rather than direct care of patients. Compliance with administrative norms, a high level of knowledge, and a careful approach to patients simultaneously can be complex. Still, it is the only effective way to provide an adequate level of care.
The application of Watson’s theory is most useful in cases where the patient has communication difficulties. For example, elderly patients sometimes distrust medical staff, especially after severe illnesses. To establish contact with such patients, one can use the central aspect of Watson’s theory – an appeal to the patient’s personality (Smith, 2019). Such communication will allow the nurse to become more experienced and influence the patient’s personality. Patients must be treated holistically, taking into account all the physical and emotional difficulties. Addressing such a patient as a person rather than a set of symptoms will instill goodwill and trust, positively affecting the treatment outcome. Finding the right approach to complex patients has a positive effect not only on the patient’s personality and the result of treatment but also provokes the development of valuable professional qualities of a nurse.
Conclusion
Watson’s approach allows nurses to move away from the current multi-tasking role and turn entirely to patient care. The process claims that its methods will not only positively influence the course of treatment but also develop the professional qualities of a medical specialist. Applying Watson’s approach is especially helpful with complicated patients who have difficulty communicating. The soft and comprehensive method allows the nurse to establish communication and fully take care of the patient.
References
Sitzman, K. (2019). Assessing and Measuring Caring in Nursing and Health Sciences: Watson’s Caring Science Guide. Springer Publishing Company.
Smith, M.C. (2019). Nursing theories and nursing practice. F.A. Davis Company.
Zerwekh, J., & Garneau, A. Z. (2020). Nursing today: Transition and trends (10th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.