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 the major concepts in nursing

In the field of nursing, there are four major concepts that form the foundation of nursing theory and practice: person (also referred to as client or patient), environment, health, and nursing itself. These concepts shape the way nurses understand and interact with patients, develop care plans, and promote healing and well-being. While discussing my beliefs about these concepts, please note that these are opinions based on my understanding and experiences as a nursing student, and they may vary among different individuals.

a. Person:
In my opinion, the concept of person in nursing refers to a unique individual who is the focus of care. I believe that every person has inherent worth and dignity, regardless of their health status or circumstances. Each person possesses unique biopsychosocial attributes that influence their experience of health and well-being. As a nurse, I believe in treating each person holistically and respecting their autonomy, cultural background, and individual preferences.

b. Environment:
Regarding the environment in nursing, I believe it encompasses both the physical and social contexts in which the person exists. This includes factors such as the physical setting (e.g., hospitals, homes), social support systems, cultural influences, and socioeconomic conditions. I believe that the environment plays a significant role in shaping a person’s health and well-being, and as nurses, we should strive to create safe, therapeutic, and culturally sensitive environments that promote healing and optimal health outcomes.

c. Health:
Health, in my opinion, is a dynamic state of well-being that extends beyond the absence of illness. I believe that health is influenced by multiple factors, including physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions. It is a continuum that varies among individuals and can be affected by genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and access to healthcare. As nurses, I believe in promoting holistic health and helping individuals achieve their highest level of functioning and well-being.

d. Nursing:
Nursing, to me, is both an art and a science. It is a profession dedicated to promoting, maintaining, and restoring health and well-being. I believe nursing encompasses a wide range of roles, including caregiver, advocate, educator, and leader. Nurses utilize evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and therapeutic communication to provide patient-centered care. I believe that nursing is an essential and collaborative discipline that works together with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare system.

2. Characteristics of Realism and Idealism and my stance on the continuum

Realism and idealism are two philosophical perspectives that provide different interpretations of reality and truth. They have been influential in shaping various fields, including nursing, and they represent different ways of understanding the world. Here are the characteristics of each perspective:

a. Realism:
Realism posits that reality exists independently of our thoughts and perceptions. It emphasizes the objective and external nature of reality, which can be observed and studied through empirical methods. Realism holds that there is an external world “out there” that exists whether we perceive it or not. It values evidence, facts, and concrete observations as the basis of knowledge. Realists tend to focus on practical, tangible outcomes and prioritize the observable over the subjective.

b. Idealism:
Idealism, on the other hand, argues that reality is a product of our minds and consciousness. It emphasizes the subjective and internal nature of reality, which is constructed through our thoughts, perceptions, and interpretations. Idealism holds that our experiences and interpretations shape our understanding of reality. It values intuition, insight, and abstract concepts as the basis of knowledge. Idealists tend to focus on aspirations, values, and abstract ideas, prioritizing the subjective over the observable.

Considering these characteristics, I see myself leaning towards the realism side of the continuum. While I acknowledge the importance of subjective experiences and interpretations in nursing, I believe that grounding our practice in empirical evidence and objective observations is crucial to ensure effective and safe care. I value the scientific approach in understanding and solving healthcare challenges, as it enables us to provide evidenced-based care and contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession.

However, it is essential to note that nursing practice often requires a balance between realism and idealism. While realism provides a practical framework for understanding and addressing patients’ physical and psychological needs, incorporating idealistic elements, such as empathy, compassion, and advocacy, is vital for providing holistic and patient-centered care. Thus, I aim to strike a balance between these perspectives, utilizing both objective data and subjective experiences to guide my nursing practice.

3. Differentiation of values and beliefs

In nursing, values and beliefs are essential aspects of personal and professional identity. Understanding the distinction between them is crucial for ethical decision-making and providing person-centered care. Here are the definitions and differences:

a. Values:
Values are deeply-held principles or qualities that individuals or societies deem desirable and important. They guide our actions, choices, and behavior. Values are formed through a combination of personal experiences, cultural influences, and ethical considerations. They reflect what we perceive as right or wrong, good or bad, and guide our moral compass. In the nursing context, values may include compassion, integrity, respect, autonomy, and justice. Values shape our attitudes, influence our interactions with patients, and help us prioritize our nursing responsibilities.

b. Beliefs:
Beliefs, on the other hand, are individual convictions or assumptions about what is true or real. They can be influenced by personal experiences, cultural or religious background, education, and exposure to different perspectives. Beliefs are subjective and can vary among individuals or communities. In the nursing context, beliefs can encompass a wide range of topics, such as the nature of health and illness, the effectiveness of certain treatments, or the importance of cultural practices. Beliefs can impact how we approach patient care, communicate with patients, and make clinical decisions.

The key difference between values and beliefs lies in their nature and influence. While values are overarching principles that guide our actions and decisions, beliefs are personal convictions or assumptions about reality. Values tend to be more stable and enduring, while beliefs can evolve and change over time. Additionally, values are often strongly influenced by cultural and societal norms, whereas beliefs are more individualistic.

In conclusion, understanding the major concepts in nursing, such as person, environment, health, and nursing itself, is vital for providing holistic and patient-centered care. Realism and idealism offer different philosophical perspectives on understanding reality, and finding a balance between the two is crucial for effective nursing practice. Differentiating between values and beliefs helps nurses navigate ethical dilemmas and deliver person-centered care that respects individual perspectives and cultural diversity.