Science and Philosophy of caring: Application in Nursing

Science and Philosophy of caring: Application in Nursing

Also known as the theory of caring, it considers factors that affect the process of providing care to patients and is applicable to therapeutic relationships with patients. Therapeutic relationships in the context of a hospital have become common since they accelerate the healing process of patients and their principles resemble Watson’s theory of nursing. The theory of science and philosophy of caring considers caring factors that act as the guidelines and the conceptual model of the practice of nursing. In creating a caring environment, nurses must be aware of the fact that they serve human beings and as such, they should be able to take a humanistic approach to their practice. Besides, they should comprehend the value system of the patients and other variables that influence the lives of the patients (Will & McEwen, 2002). Additionally, Watson says that nurses should instill a sense of faith and hope in patients. This important factor enhances the process of healing and is central to therapeutic relationship with patients.

Unlike the theory of human becoming, Watson’s theory articulates that cultivation of sensitivity amongst the nurses and the patients is important for positive outcomes (Taylor & Lillis, 2001). This entails establishing a rapport with the patients helping them during therapy. In this way, the nurses are able to enhance trust that is critical for the healing process of the patient (Julia, 2003). It is also important for the nurses to ensure that the patients are able to express their feelings without fear. This does not only allow the nurse to understand the value systems and culture of the patient but also gives the patient a chance to understand the context of the caregiver. This is important during therapeutic relationships with patients.

Deadline panic?

We're here to rescue and writea custom academic paperin just 1 hour!

Explore further

Watson also explicates that the process of caring ought to be guided by the ability of caregivers to make important decisions by displaying problem solving skills (Taylor & Lillis, 2001). This allows the establishment of an environment that enhances teaching and learning that are crucial to healing process that reflects therapeutic relationships (Julia, 2003). The nurses also should be able to develop supportive contexts in which the patient feels appreciated and empowered. This goes a long way in fulfilling and gratifying humanistic needs of the patient in addition to enhancing the job satisfaction of the nurses.

Science and philosophy of caring theory is entrenched in a conceptual model similar to the theory of human becoming. They define a person as a being that interacts with the environment to gain experience. While Parse perceives the environment as inclusive of human beings, Watson considers the sole society as the environment (Will & McEwen, 2002). Nonetheless, the theory of science and philosophy of caring is applicable in the contemporary nursing practice unlike the theory of human becoming. The rationale is that the nurses can use the theory to facilitate them in establishing therapeutic relationship with patients. Taylor & Lillis (2001) affirms that this type of therapy involves assuming a humanistic approach towards enhancing the health of patients. It also involves understanding the factors that may influence the process of healing. Besides, it has become popular amongst many health care providers.

Summary

In conclusion, Parse’s theory compares substantially with Watson’s model of caring. They focus on the importance of the patient in nursing practice. The human becoming theory proposes that environment shapes ways in which caregivers and patients decipher the actual meanings of various situations. The process of nursing involves deriving meaning from environment to facilitate the comprehension of appropriate care to the patient. Indeed, the theory defines nursing practice as a science that uses specific art to provide service to man. Watson’s model of caring considers the factors that influence the provision of care. The theory proposes that nurses should utilize their skills and provide care to the patients. They should provide a supportive and caring environment in their therapeutic relationship with patients. It also entails putting the interests of the patients at the centre of practice. This is important in nursing practice as it enhances establishment of therapeutic relationships with patients.