Books Required Perspectives on Nursing Theory, 6th Edition Author: Pamela G. Reed RN PhD FAAN; Dr. Nelma B. Crawford Shearer RN PhD ISBN: 978-1-60913-748-9 Publisher: LWW, (2012) Your paper should be in APA format and not more that eight pages long , including the cover and reference pages Nursing theories have a great role in the development of nursing practice. Select a nursing theorist of your choice and show how the theory has influenced nursing
Introduction
Nursing theories play a significant role in the development of nursing practice by providing a theoretical framework to guide patient care. These theories help nurses understand and explain phenomena related to nursing, ultimately improving the delivery of healthcare services. In this paper, we will explore the contributions of a specific nursing theorist, Pamela G. Reed, and her theory on “Self-Transcendence” in influencing nursing practice.
Overview of Pamela G. Reed
Pamela G. Reed is a registered nurse and holds a PhD in Nursing. She is a renowned nurse theorist and scholar who has made significant contributions to the field of nursing theory. Dr. Reed’s work has focused on understanding human responses to illness, improving the nurse-patient relationship, and promoting holistic patient care.
Self-Transcendence Theory
Dr. Reed’s theory on “Self-Transcendence” is a nursing middle-range theory that seeks to explore the human capacity for growth and transcendence in the face of challenging life situations, including illness and suffering. According to Reed, self-transcendence involves the expansion and connection of the self with others, nature, and the spiritual realm, resulting in a sense of purpose, meaning, and well-being.
In the context of nursing practice, the theory of self-transcendence provides a framework for understanding the unique experience of patients and the role of nurses in promoting their self-transcendence. It highlights the importance of addressing the holistic needs of patients, including their physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions.
Influence on Nursing Practice
Dr. Reed’s theory of self-transcendence has had a profound influence on nursing practice in several ways. Firstly, it has brought attention to the spiritual dimension of human existence, emphasizing the significance of spiritual well-being in overall health and healing. Nurses who incorporate the principles of self-transcendence into their practice recognize the importance of addressing patients’ spiritual needs and providing holistic care that goes beyond physical symptoms.
Secondly, the theory has led to a shift in the nurse-patient relationship. By acknowledging and nurturing patients’ self-transcendence, nurses can establish a therapeutic partnership that focuses on empowering the patient and promoting their growth and development. This approach emphasizes the patient’s role as an active participant in their care, encouraging them to take ownership of their health and well-being.
Furthermore, Dr. Reed’s theory has influenced nursing education by promoting a holistic and person-centered approach. Nursing programs that incorporate the principles of self-transcendence emphasize the development of nursing skills and knowledge necessary to provide care that is sensitive to patients’ unique needs and experiences. Students are encouraged to explore their own self-transcendence and reflect on their personal growth as they prepare to enter the nursing profession.
Moreover, the theory of self-transcendence has facilitated the development and utilization of assessment tools and intervention strategies to promote patients’ self-transcendence. Nurses can use these tools to assess patients’ spiritual well-being, identify areas for growth and support, and implement interventions to facilitate self-transcendence. This approach ensures that nursing care is individualized and tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Lastly, Dr. Reed’s theory has influenced research in nursing by providing a theoretical framework to guide empirical investigations on self-transcendence and its impact on health outcomes. Researchers can explore the relationships between self-transcendence and variables such as quality of life, coping mechanisms, and health behaviors. These studies contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the importance of addressing spiritual well-being in healthcare settings.
Conclusion
In summary, nursing theories, such as the self-transcendence theory by Pamela G. Reed, have significantly influenced nursing practice. The theory emphasizes the importance of holistic care, spiritual well-being, and the nurse-patient partnership. It provides a framework for understanding and addressing patients’ unique needs and experiences, promoting their self-transcendence and overall well-being. By incorporating the principles of self-transcendence into nursing practice, nurses can provide patient-centered care that enhances the quality of healthcare services. Further research and application of this theory can continue to advance nursing practice and improve patient outcomes.