Present an example of a non-nursing theory and explain how the components of the non-nursing theory have been incorporated into a nursing theory. Primary reference must be from peer-reviewed English titled journal less than 5 y/o and the course textbook. Supplemental references may be from National professional or governmental, or educational organizations(.org, .gov, and .edu). The following textbook must be used as a reference as well: ISBN: 9780135135839 George, J. (2011). Nursing theories: The base for professional practice (6thed.). Boston: Pearson.
The field of nursing draws heavily from various non-nursing theories to develop its own nursing theories. Non-nursing theories are theories that are not specifically designed for the nursing field but have components that can be incorporated into nursing. One such non-nursing theory is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which has been widely used in nursing theory and practice.
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, proposed by psychologist Abraham Maslow in 1943, is a theory of human motivation that suggests humans have a hierarchy of needs that must be met in a specific order. The hierarchy consists of five levels: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. According to Maslow, individuals must satisfy their lower-level needs before they can progress to the higher-level needs.
This non-nursing theory has been incorporated into nursing theory in various ways. One nursing theory that has incorporated Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is Orem’s self-care deficit theory. Developed by nursing theorist Dorothea Orem, this theory focuses on individuals’ ability to perform self-care activities to maintain their health and well-being. Orem’s theory consists of three interrelated theories: the theory of self-care, the theory of self-care deficit, and the theory of nursing systems.
In Orem’s theory of self-care, the individual’s basic needs, as outlined in Maslow’s hierarchy, are considered. The individual’s physiological and safety needs are essential factors in determining their ability to perform self-care activities. For example, a patient cannot engage in self-care activities if their basic physiological needs, such as food, water, and sleep, are not met. By incorporating Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Orem’s theory recognizes the importance of these basic needs and ensures they are considered in the nursing care provided.
Furthermore, Orem’s theory of self-care deficit also incorporates Maslow’s hierarchy of needs by addressing the individual’s need for love/belonging and esteem. Individuals with self-care deficits may lack the support and social connections needed to effectively perform self-care activities. By addressing these needs in the nursing care plan, nurses can facilitate the development of a supportive environment and encourage the individual’s ability to engage in self-care.
Additionally, Maslow’s theory of self-actualization is also considered in Orem’s theory of self-care deficit. Self-actualization is the highest level of Maslow’s hierarchy, representing an individual’s fulfillment of their potential and the desire for personal growth. In Orem’s theory, self-actualization is achieved when the individual can independently meet their self-care needs. By empowering individuals to develop the skills and knowledge needed for self-care, nurses contribute to their self-actualization and overall well-being.
An example of how Orem’s self-care deficit theory incorporates Maslow’s hierarchy of needs can be seen in the care of a patient with diabetes. The physiological needs of the patient, such as blood sugar management and medication administration, are addressed in the nursing care plan. The safety needs are met by ensuring the patient understands the potential risks and complications of uncontrolled diabetes and providing education on preventive measures. The patient’s need for love/belonging is supported by involving family members in the care process and connecting the patient with support groups. The patient’s need for esteem is addressed by recognizing and reinforcing their efforts in self-care, thereby enhancing their self-confidence and self-worth. Finally, the patient’s self-actualization is promoted by educating and encouraging them to take responsibility for their own health and empowering them to make informed decisions.
In conclusion, the incorporation of non-nursing theories into nursing theories is crucial for the development and advancement of nursing practice. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a non-nursing theory that has been effectively incorporated into nursing theories, such as Orem’s self-care deficit theory. By considering and addressing the components of Maslow’s hierarchy, nursing theories can provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and promoting the physical, psychological, and social well-being of individuals.