Name
Chamberlain University
NR-501: Theoretical Basis for Advanced Nursing Practice
Prof. Name
Date
This week has provided a rich exploration of both nursing and borrowed theories, broadening my understanding of how these frameworks influence patient care. One key learning was the comparison between McCormack and McCance’s Person-Centred Nursing Framework and Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring. While each theory emphasizes unique perspectives, they align in their focus on treating patients as holistic beings rather than objects of care. The Person-Centred Nursing Framework emphasizes individualized interventions that consider cultural beliefs, values, and preferences, while Watson’s theory highlights the healing potential that emerges when patients feel genuinely valued and cared for.
Reflecting on these theories reinforced the importance of viewing patients beyond their illnesses or diagnoses. It reminded me that healthcare is not solely about clinical outcomes but also about fostering dignity, respect, and emotional well-being. In my practice, I realized how integrating both theories can enhance healing by ensuring that patients receive care that resonates with their identities and personal values.
One specific way I achieved the weekly objectives was through active engagement in class discussions. By analyzing case scenarios and reflecting on the similarities and differences between Watson’s and McCormack & McCance’s models, I was able to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world nursing practice. For example, in a case discussion on patient recovery following surgery, I applied person-centered strategies such as tailoring pain management to align with cultural beliefs, while also drawing on Watson’s principles to provide compassionate communication. This exercise enhanced my ability to translate theory into practice and reaffirmed the value of evidence-based yet personalized care.
The concept of person-centered care from McCormack and McCance’s framework was the most valuable to me. It emphasized that healthcare should not be delivered through a “one-size-fits-all” approach but should instead be adapted to each patient’s context, cultural practices, and personal preferences. I also found Watson’s caring theory particularly beneficial, as it highlights the importance of empathy, respect, and human connection in patient healing.
Additionally, the use of reflective practice as a tool stood out as a vital resource. Reflective journaling and guided peer discussions helped deepen my understanding of how theory connects to practice. These tools encouraged me to critically evaluate my past nursing experiences and identify areas where patient-centered approaches were overlooked.
Before this week, I had not given much thought to how cultural sensitivity directly influences patient outcomes. In the emergency department, where I previously worked, the urgency of care often overshadowed considerations for cultural practices. Patients were treated based on immediate medical needs without assessing how cultural values shaped their acceptance of treatment. This week’s learning emphasized that neglecting culture may inadvertently lead to patients feeling undervalued or misunderstood, which can hinder recovery and trust in healthcare providers.
I also had not fully considered the psychological and emotional implications of failing to implement person-centered care. Providing generic or routine interventions may meet clinical standards but can fall short of addressing patients’ deeper needs. Recognizing this gap has reshaped my perspective on the holistic nature of healing.
| Aspect | McCormack & McCance’s Person-Centred Nursing Framework | Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Individualized, person-centered care tailored to beliefs, values, and preferences | Human connection, empathy, and valuing the patient as a whole person |
| Application in Practice | Encourages adapting care plans to cultural and personal needs | Promotes emotional healing through authentic nurse-patient relationships |
| Strengths | Improves patient satisfaction, ensures culturally competent care | Fosters trust, enhances emotional well-being, and supports holistic healing |
| Challenges | Requires time, effort, and cultural competence from providers | May be difficult to apply in fast-paced environments like emergency care |
| Future Practice Relevance | Reminds providers to avoid generic care and prioritize individuality | Encourages maintaining compassion and dignity even in stressful clinical settings |
This week’s focus on nursing and borrowed theories emphasized the significance of combining evidence-based practices with compassionate, individualized care. McCormack and McCance’s framework and Watson’s theory complement one another in guiding nurses to provide care that is both scientifically sound and deeply human. Moving forward, I plan to integrate person-centered strategies with a caring approach to ensure my patients not only receive competent medical care but also feel respected, valued, and understood.
McCormack, B., & McCance, T. (2017). Person-centred practice in nursing and health care: Theory and practice (2nd ed.). Wiley-Blackwell.
Watson, J. (2018). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring (Rev. ed.). University Press of Colorado.
Papastavrou, E., Efstathiou, G., & Charalambous, A. (2023). Nurses’ and patients’ perceptions of caring behaviours: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 79(1), 47–62. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15463
