The future of healthcare is focused upon improving patient outcomes and patient satisfaction. Through the application of research studies and theory, evidence based practice development will lead the profession of nursing into the future whereby knowledge and skills support the practice of providing quality care. Locate one nursing theory and one non-nursing theory. Describe how two practitioners can bring these separate theories together to provide meaningful patient care.
Introduction:
In the ever-evolving healthcare field, the focus has shifted towards improving patient outcomes and satisfaction. This has led to an increased emphasis on evidence-based practice and the integration of theory into patient care. Nursing theories, as well as non-nursing theories, play a crucial role in guiding practitioners in providing meaningful patient care. This paper aims to explore the integration of a nursing theory and a non-nursing theory by two practitioners in order to enhance patient care.
Nursing Theory: Hildegard Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations
One nursing theory that can be utilized to provide meaningful patient care is Hildegard Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations. This theory is focused on the nurse-patient relationship and highlights the importance of interpersonal communication in the healing process. According to Peplau, the nurse takes on various roles such as counselor, teacher, and advocate to facilitate the therapeutic relationship with the patient (Peplau, 1952).
Non-Nursing Theory: Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
To complement Peplau’s nursing theory, Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs can be integrated into the patient care process. Maslow’s theory emphasizes the importance of meeting basic human needs before addressing higher-level needs. The hierarchy consists of physiological needs, safety needs, belongingness and love needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs (Maslow, 1954). By identifying and addressing these needs, practitioners can enhance the overall well-being of patients.
Integration of Theories for Meaningful Patient Care:
When two practitioners, such as a nurse and a psychologist, come together to provide patient care, they can integrate Peplau’s theory and Maslow’s theory to ensure meaningful care delivery. The nurse, utilizing Peplau’s theory, focuses on establishing a therapeutic relationship with the patient by applying effective communication and empathetic listening skills. This allows the nurse to understand the patient’s unique needs, concerns, and goals.
Simultaneously, the psychologist, using Maslow’s hierarchy, assesses the patient’s basic physiological needs, safety needs, and higher-level needs. By collaborating with the nurse, the psychologist can understand how the patient’s psychological and emotional well-being can impact their ability to fulfill these needs. This collaborative approach ensures that the patient’s holistic well-being is addressed.
For instance, consider a patient experiencing chronic pain due to a physical injury. The nurse, using Peplau’s theory, establishes a therapeutic relationship with the patient. By actively listening and showing empathy, the nurse gains a deeper understanding of the patient’s pain experience and its impact on their daily life. This helps in establishing trust and creating a safe environment for the patient to express their concerns.
Simultaneously, the psychologist, using Maslow’s hierarchy, assesses the patient’s physiological needs, ensuring they have adequate pain management and comfort. The psychologist also addresses the patient’s safety needs by providing education on self-management strategies to prevent further injury or exacerbation of pain.
As the nurse and psychologist collaborate and communicate effectively, they can identify the patient’s belongingness and love needs. By involving the patient’s family in the care process, both practitioners ensure that the patient feels supported and connected to their loved ones. This sense of belongingness and love helps the patient cope with their pain and improves their overall well-being.
Furthermore, the nurse and psychologist can address the patient’s esteem needs. The nurse provides emotional support and encouragement, validating the patient’s strength and resilience in coping with their pain. The psychologist, on the other hand, utilizes their expertise to address any underlying psychological issues that may be impacting the patient’s self-esteem. By empowering the patient and fostering a sense of self-worth, both practitioners contribute to the patient’s healing process.
Lastly, the nurse and psychologist work together to address the patient’s self-actualization needs. Through effective communication, education, and support, they help the patient set and achieve goals that promote personal growth and fulfillment beyond their pain experience. This collaborative approach ensures that the patient’s physical, psychological, and emotional needs are met, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the integration of nursing and non-nursing theories enhances the provision of meaningful patient care. By combining Hildegard Peplau’s Theory of Interpersonal Relations with Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, practitioners can establish therapeutic relationships, address basic physiological needs, and support patients in achieving higher-level needs. This collaborative approach contributes to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction, reflecting the future of healthcare that prioritizes evidence-based practice and quality care provision.