October 8, 2018: Patient Care Delivery System Theorists
Over the past several weeks we’ve reviewed three theorists on which our professional practice model and patient care delivery system are based. The fourth and final theorists is Jean Watson and her Theory of Human Caring and Caring Science, developed in the 1970s.
This theory views caring in a relational state that is based on a moral, ethical and philosophical foundation of love and values. Providers have a moral commitment to protect and enhance the dignity of patients and the community served. This is accomplished by maintaining balance in one’s personal life and acting with intention towards those we serve.
Reflective practice is an important part of Watson’s theory. This involves being mindful of how we express care to our patient, guests and community.
Watson’s 10 Carative Factors (carative versus curative) are:
- Humanistic-altruistic system of values – using loving kindness to extend yourself to others.
- Instill faith and hope – provide a connection with the patient that offers purpose and direction
- Cultivate a sensitivity to self and others – accepting self and others and recognize another’s full potential.
- Develop a helping-trusting, human care relationship through effective communication
- Promote & express positive and negative feelings in an environment of acceptance
- Use a creative problem-solving caring process through patient centered care
- Promote transpersonal teaching-learning by learning together
- Provide a supportive, protective, and/or corrective mental, physical, societal and spiritual environment that creates healing at all levels while promoting wholeness.
- Human needs assistance by providing basic needs with intentional, conscious caring
- Allow for existential-phenomenological-spiritual forces to help provide a better understanding of self and patient.
I hope you can see our Mission, Vision and I CARE values woven through each of the theorists. Take time out today to reflect on how you have made a connection with a patient, co-worker, family or community member. What went well? What would you change if you could? How will you use what you learned in your next patient encounter?
– Janet Leatherwood, CNO.
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