NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-500: Foundational Concepts & Applications

Prof. Name

Date

Introduction

Caring is a fundamental concept within the nursing profession, forming the core of nursing practice. Nursing and caring are inseparable, with caring encompassing the ability to demonstrate attentiveness, sensitivity to a patient’s values, and the skill to communicate effectively. This communication aims to address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients. A study by Andersson et al. (2015) highlighted that caring is most evident when patients are actively involved in their care, allowing them the freedom to make choices and participate in decisions that impact their overall health. This collaborative approach ensures that nursing care is tailored to the individual’s needs. Additionally, a holistic approach to care is essential, as it recognizes the uniqueness of each patient and the importance of integrating alternative therapies alongside conventional medicine to promote health and healing (Papathanasiou, Sklavou, & Kourkouta, 2013).

Definition of Caring

For me, caring in nursing involves meeting a patient’s needs with compassion, while addressing the body, mind, and spirit. Nursing, at its core, is about providing the best possible care to achieve optimal health outcomes. Humans are complex beings, not merely biological entities but also encompassing mental and spiritual dimensions (Papathanasiou, Sklavou, & Kourkouta, 2013). The relationship between nursing and caring is intertwined, as nursing involves being sensitive to the individuality of each patient. Such sensitivity fosters trust and strengthens the interpersonal relationships that are vital to the healing process. When care is patient-centered and focuses on the whole person, it contributes to a positive and supportive environment for healing.

Expression of Caring

To illustrate the concept of caring, I have chosen a short story that highlights a nurse’s sensitivity to a patient’s physical and emotional needs. In this story, a patient who had experienced repeated hospitalizations and struggled with depression due to surgical scars found comfort and solace in a healing touch practitioner. Drahošová and Jarošová (2016) emphasized that nurses are the guardians of patient well-being, playing a vital role in advocating for and protecting the patient’s best interests. Nurses not only address physical symptoms but also provide emotional and spiritual support, ensuring a holistic approach to care. Their role as both caregivers and advocates ensures that patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care.

Conclusion

Nurses occupy a unique and privileged position in caring for others, serving as the primary advocates for patients’ needs. They provide care that extends beyond just physical needs, addressing emotional and spiritual aspects as well. While the concept of caring may differ in its definition based on the individual interactions between nurses and patients (Drahošová & Jarošová, 2016), it remains a cornerstone of nursing practice. Through caring, nurses foster a trusting environment and build strong relationships with patients, paving the way for effective and holistic care.

References

Andersson, E. K., Willman, A., Sjöström-Strand, A., & Borglin, G. (2015). Registered nurses’ descriptions of caring: A phenomenographic interview study. BMC Nursing, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-015-0067-9

Drahošová, L., & Jarošová, D. (2016). Concept of caring in nursing. Central European Journal of Nursing & Midwifery, 7(2), 453-461. https://doi.org/10.15452/CEJNM.2016.07.0014

NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

Papathanasiou, I., Sklavou, M., & Kourkouta, L. (2013). Holistic nursing care: Theories and perspectives. American Journal of Nursing Science, 2(1), 1-5. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajns.20130201.11

NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

Table: Expression of Caring in Nursing