QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION 1) How have the early conceptualizations of nursing by Wiedenbach, Henderson, and Wall influenced the work of other nursing theorists who followed them? 2) Describe how these early conceptualizations might fit within current health-care systems and within an area of specialty practice. 3) How would the approach to patient care differ if you as the nurse were practicing from within the nursing conceptual model developed by Wiedenbach, Henderson, or Hall?
The early conceptualizations of nursing by Wiedenbach, Henderson, and Hall have had a significant impact on the work of other nursing theorists who followed them. These conceptualizations provided the foundation for many nursing theories that emerged later. In order to understand how these early conceptualizations influenced subsequent nursing theorists, it is important to examine the ideas presented by each of these theorists individually.
Wiedenbach’s conceptualization of nursing focused on the idea of “doing for” the patient. She emphasized the importance of the nurse’s role in providing direct care and meeting the patient’s needs. This notion of “doing for” the patient influenced other nursing theorists by highlighting the hands-on nature of nursing practice. It reaffirmed the idea that nurses are actively involved in the care of patients and play a crucial role in promoting their well-being.
Similarly, Henderson’s conceptualization of nursing emphasized the nurse’s role in helping the patient meet their basic needs. She identified 14 basic needs of the patient, including physiological, psychological, and social needs. Henderson’s framework provided a comprehensive approach to nursing care that influenced subsequent theorists by emphasizing the holistic nature of nursing practice. This holistic approach has been incorporated into many nursing theories that followed, recognizing that nursing care goes beyond just addressing physical ailments.
Hall’s conceptualization of nursing focused on the idea of “interpersonal relations” between the nurse and the patient. She emphasized the importance of establishing a therapeutic relationship with the patient, in which the nurse acts as a facilitator of change. Hall’s emphasis on the nurse-patient relationship influenced other nursing theorists by highlighting the importance of the interpersonal aspect of nursing. This concept has been integrated into many nursing theories that emphasize the significance of communication, trust, and empathy in establishing effective nurse-patient relationships.
These early conceptualizations of nursing can fit within current health-care systems and within an area of specialty practice by providing a theoretical foundation that guides nursing practice. The “doing for” approach proposed by Wiedenbach can be applied in various health-care settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and home care, where nurses are actively involved in providing direct care to patients. This conceptualization can also be useful in specialty areas that require a hands-on approach, such as critical care or surgical nursing.
Henderson’s emphasis on meeting the basic needs of the patient can be applied in all areas of nursing practice. Regardless of the specialty, nurses must address the physiological, psychological, and social needs of their patients. This conceptualization can be particularly valuable in areas such as community health nursing, where nurses work with diverse populations and need to consider the various dimensions of a patient’s well-being.
Hall’s focus on interpersonal relations can be applicable to all areas of nursing practice as well. Building therapeutic relationships with patients is crucial in promoting trust, understanding, and effective communication. This conceptualization can be particularly relevant in areas such as mental health nursing, where establishing and maintaining therapeutic relationships is essential for providing holistic care to patients.
If I were practicing from within the nursing conceptual model developed by Wiedenbach, Henderson, or Hall, my approach to patient care would be different based on the specific theoretical framework. In Wiedenbach’s model, I would place a strong emphasis on providing direct care to the patient. I would prioritize meeting the patient’s needs and actively engaging in hands-on tasks to promote their well-being.
In Henderson’s model, I would focus on identifying and addressing the patient’s basic needs. I would assess the patient’s physiological, psychological, and social needs and develop a care plan that targets these areas. I would work collaboratively with the patient to meet their needs and promote their overall well-being.
In Hall’s model, I would prioritize establishing a therapeutic relationship with the patient. I would focus on effective communication, building trust, and facilitating change. I would strive to create a supportive and empowering environment for the patient, where they feel comfortable expressing their needs and concerns.
In conclusion, the early conceptualizations of nursing by Wiedenbach, Henderson, and Hall have influenced the work of other nursing theorists who followed them. These conceptualizations have provided the foundation for many nursing theories that emerged later. They have shaped the understanding of nursing as a profession and have guided nursing practice in areas such as direct care, meeting basic needs, and establishing therapeutic relationships with patients. These early conceptualizations can be applied within current health-care systems and within various specialty areas, providing a theoretical framework that guides nursing practice.