Watson’s Caring Theory, a grand theory in nursing, is the underlying framework for United States University College of Nursing’s programs. Identify a theory within her framework. Clearly identify how she defines the concepts and propositions between them. Report them to the class. Using the readings for the week, discuss why her work is considered a grand theory. Initial Post: Initial Post:
Jean Watson’s Caring Theory is a grand theory in the field of nursing that serves as the foundational framework for the United States University College of Nursing’s programs. Within this framework, there are several theories that encompass Watson’s overarching concept of caring. One notable theory within her framework is the Theory of Human Caring.
The Theory of Human Caring focuses on the belief that “caring is the essence of nursing” (Watson, 1985, p. 29). According to Watson, caring is a fundamental aspect of nursing and should be practiced by nurses in all aspects of their care for patients. She defines caring as a holistic concept composed of ten factors, which include:
1. Formation of a humanistic-altruistic system of values: Watson emphasizes that nurses should possess a deep sense of compassion and altruism, putting the needs and well-being of patients at the forefront of their practice.
2. Instillation of faith-hope: Nurses should promote faith and hope in patients, providing spiritual and emotional support to help them cope with their health challenges.
3. Cultivation of sensitivity to self and others: Watson emphasizes the importance of self-awareness for nurses, recognizing their own limitations and biases in order to provide unbiased care. Sensitivity to others involves being attuned to the emotional and physical needs of patients.
4. Development of a helping-trusting, caring relationship: Watson emphasizes the need for nurses to establish a therapeutic relationship with patients based on trust and mutual respect. This relationship should be characterized by open communication, empathy, and compassion.
5. Promotion and acceptance of the expression of positive and negative feelings: Nurses should create a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows patients to freely express their emotions, both positive and negative. This promotes emotional healing and acceptance.
6. Systematic use of a creative problem-solving caring process: Nurses should apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address the unique needs of each patient. This involves using creativity and flexibility to develop individualized care plans.
7. Promotion of transpersonal teaching-learning: Watson emphasizes the importance of educating patients about their health conditions and empowering them to actively participate in their care. The nurse acts as a facilitator of knowledge and skill acquisition.
8. Provision for a supportive, protective, and/or corrective mental, physical, sociocultural, and spiritual environment: Nurses should create an environment that promotes healing and supports the well-being of patients. This includes providing physical comfort, advocating for social and cultural needs, and attending to patients’ spiritual beliefs.
9. Assistance with gratification of human needs: Nurses should help patients meet their physical, psychological, and emotional needs. This involves providing basic care (e.g., hygiene, nutrition), as well as addressing higher-order needs such as self-esteem and feelings of belongingness.
10. Allowance for existential-phenomenological-spiritual forces: Watson acknowledges the importance of spirituality and the existential aspects of human life. Nurses should recognize and respect patients’ individual beliefs and spiritual practices, facilitating their search for meaning and purpose.
These ten factors of caring are interconnected and form the basis of Watson’s theory. The propositions between these concepts highlight the relational nature of caring and emphasize the nurse-patient interaction and its impact on the healing process. For example, the development of a helping-trusting, caring relationship is foundational to the provision of care according to Watson’s theory. This relationship is predicated on the nurse’s expression of caring and the patient’s ability to receive and reciprocate care. The theory also emphasizes the importance of providing a supportive environment, as well as assisting patients with the gratification of their needs.
Watson’s work is considered a grand theory due to its comprehensive nature and its ability to encompass the broader aspects of nursing practice. Grand theories are characterized by their ability to explain and predict phenomena across different domains of nursing practice, serving as a foundational framework for the discipline. Watson’s Theory of Human Caring encompasses various aspects of nursing, including the nurse-patient relationship, the physical and emotional well-being of patients, and the importance of spirituality. It provides a holistic perspective on nursing, promoting a caring approach that goes beyond simply addressing physical symptoms and focuses on patients’ overall well-being. By providing a broad framework for understanding and practicing nursing care, Watson’s theory earns its classification as a grand theory.