discussion about the following topics: 1. What are you beliefs about the major concepts in nursing; person, environment, health, nursing? I am looking personal opinion I do not want book definitions. 2. Discuss the characteristics of Realism and Idealism and give one example of where do you see yourself on the continuum of realism and idealism 3. Define and differentiate between values and beliefs.
1. Beliefs about Major Concepts in Nursing
The major concepts in nursing, including person, environment, health, and nursing itself, form the foundation of the nursing profession. While opinions on these concepts can vary among individuals, there are certain shared beliefs that underpin the practice of nursing.
a) Person: The concept of person in nursing refers to the individual receiving care. As a student of nursing, I believe that every person is unique, with their own set of physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. I recognize the importance of providing holistic and patient-centered care that values individuality and promotes a sense of dignity and well-being. Moreover, I believe that individuals have the ability to actively participate in their own care, and that their beliefs, values, and preferences should guide the nursing interventions provided.
b) Environment: In nursing, the concept of environment encompasses both the internal and external factors that can influence a person’s health and well-being. Personally, I believe that the environment in which a person lives, works, and receives care can have a profound impact on their overall health outcomes. It is important for nurses to consider the physical, social, cultural, and economic aspects of the environment when delivering care. This entails recognizing social determinants of health, addressing health disparities, and advocating for environmental conditions that promote health and well-being.
c) Health: Health is a complex and multidimensional concept in nursing. As a student of nursing, I believe that health encompasses not only the absence of disease but also the promotion of physical, mental, and social well-being. I recognize that health is influenced by a variety of factors, including lifestyle choices, genetics, socio-economic status, and access to healthcare. Nursing plays a critical role in assisting individuals to achieve optimal health, prevent illness, and manage chronic conditions through health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education.
d) Nursing: Nursing is both a profession and a discipline. Personally, I believe that nursing is a comprehensive and dynamic practice that encompasses the art and science of caring for individuals, families, and communities. Nurses possess a unique blend of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable them to provide safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care. I also believe that nursing is a collaborative profession, involving partnerships with other healthcare professionals and interdisciplinary teams to deliver the best outcomes for the patients.
2. Characteristics of Realism and Idealism
Realism and idealism are philosophical viewpoints that have relevance in various disciplines, including nursing. Realism emphasizes objective reality and the existence of an external world that can be studied and understood through observation and scientific methods. Idealism, on the other hand, highlights the importance of ideas and subjective experiences in shaping reality.
Realism posits that the external world exists independently of individuals’ thoughts or perceptions, and that knowledge can be obtained through direct observation and empirical evidence. In nursing, a realist perspective would value evidence-based practice, using research findings and scientific principles to guide clinical decision-making. Realism may also emphasize the importance of objective measurements, such as physiological indicators, in assessing a patient’s condition.
On the other hand, idealism considers reality to be shaped by our thoughts, ideas, and consciousness. It emphasizes the significance of human experiences, values, and beliefs in constructing the world we perceive. In nursing, an idealist approach may prioritize patient-centered care, recognizing the unique perspectives and values of each individual. This perspective may also focus on the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the patient, considering the patient’s subjective experiences and emotions in promoting healing.
As for my position on the continuum of realism and idealism, I believe that nursing practice requires a balance between the two perspectives. While realism provides a solid foundation for evidence-based practice and scientific rigor, idealism reminds us of the importance of individual experiences and person-centered care. I believe that the best nursing practice combines a critical analysis of scientific evidence with compassion, empathy, and respect for patients’ values and beliefs. By embracing both realism and idealism, nurses can provide holistic care that integrates the best available evidence with the unique needs and experiences of each patient.
3. Differentiating Values and Beliefs
Values and beliefs are fundamental aspects of an individual’s worldview and can significantly influence their behavior, decisions, and interactions with others. While there is some overlap between the two concepts, they are distinct in their nature and impact on personal and professional life.
Values refer to deeply held principles or standards that individuals consider important and guide their actions and judgments. These principles can be ethical, cultural, social, or personal in nature. Values provide a framework for decision-making, shaping an individual’s preferences, priorities, and behaviors. For example, a nurse may prioritize the value of autonomy, respecting a patient’s right to make their own healthcare decisions.
Beliefs, on the other hand, refer to the acceptance of something as true or real, often influenced by personal experiences, attitudes, cultural upbringing, and acquired knowledge. Beliefs can range from religious or spiritual convictions to scientific or philosophical understandings. In a nursing context, a belief could be that every person has the potential for healing and growth.
In summary, values provide the guiding principles that shape individual behavior and decision-making, whereas beliefs reflect an individual’s acceptance of certain truths or realities. Both values and beliefs are essential considerations in nursing practice, as they influence how nurses interact with patients, make ethical decisions, and provide person-centered care.