The surrogate role is not one that is frequently mentioned in recent nursing practice literature. Is that role as defined by Peplau relevant to nursing practice as currently experienced. If so, in what way. If not, why? Please include 400 words in your initial post with two scholarly articles by Wednesday midnight
The surrogate role, as defined by Peplau, refers to the nurse’s ability to act as a substitute or surrogate for the patient’s significant others. This role entails providing emotional support, understanding, and guidance to patients who may be lacking these elements from their usual support systems. While the surrogate role has been discussed extensively in the nursing literature in the past, its relevance to current nursing practice is a topic that warrants exploration.
In considering the relevance of the surrogate role in contemporary nursing, it is important to recognize the evolving nature of healthcare delivery. With advancements in technology, changes in family structures, and shifts in societal norms, the dynamics within healthcare settings have also transformed. As a result, the traditional concept of the surrogate role may need to be reevaluated to align with the current experiences of nurses and patients.
One way in which the surrogate role remains relevant in modern nursing practice is through the provision of emotional support. Research suggests that emotional well-being plays a crucial role in patients’ overall health outcomes and their ability to cope with illness (Lubkin, 2018). Nurses, being at the forefront of patient care, have the opportunity to fill gaps in emotional support that patients may encounter. By assuming the surrogate role, nurses can establish therapeutic relationships with patients and provide the necessary emotional support, which may be particularly crucial for patients who lack strong support systems.
Additionally, the surrogate role can be relevant in situations where patients face communication barriers or have limited decision-making capacity. In these instances, nurses can act as advocates for patients, ensuring their wishes and preferences are respected while collaborating with the healthcare team to make informed decisions. This aspect of the surrogate role aligns with the principles of patient-centered care, which emphasizes the importance of involving patients in their own healthcare decisions (Nelson et al., 2012).
However, it is essential to acknowledge that the surrogate role may not be as widely discussed in contemporary nursing practice literature as it once was. This could be attributed to multiple factors. First, the concept of family has evolved, and traditional support systems may not always include conventional family structures. As a result, the surrogate role may need to be redefined to encompass a broader understanding of significant others beyond immediate family members.
Second, advancements in healthcare technologies and the increased focus on evidence-based practice have shifted the emphasis toward more technical aspects of nursing care. While this has undoubtedly improved patient outcomes, it may have inadvertently diminished the attention given to the psychosocial aspects of care, which are central to the surrogate role.
In conclusion, while the surrogate role may not be frequently discussed in recent nursing practice literature, it remains relevant to nursing practice as currently experienced. The provision of emotional support and acting as a substitute for patients’ support systems are valuable aspects of the surrogate role. However, the changing landscape of healthcare and the evolving nature of family structures may necessitate a reevaluation and redefinition of this role. It is crucial for nurses to recognize and embrace the surrogate role to ensure holistic and patient-centered care.
References:
Lubkin, I. M. (2018). Chronic illness: Impact and intervention. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Nelson, E. C., Batalden, P. B., & Godfrey, M. M. (2012). Quality by design: A clinical microsystem approach. John Wiley & Sons.