Sample Answer Included After the Question
Assessment Description
Compare two nursing theories. How do they differ based on their intent, scope, and goals? Which one might be more relevant to your future role, and why?
Sample Answer For The Assignment: NUR 513 Topic 4 DQ 1
Title: NUR 513 Topic 4 DQ 1
Hildegard Peplau’s interactive nursing theory emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships, including the orientation phase, working phase, and termination phase of the nurse/patient relationship (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003). The orientation phase involves introductions and information from the patient (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003). The working phase is when the nurse truly cares for the patients by implementing interventions and providing education and support to the patient (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003). Finally, the termination includes patient discharge (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003). The goal of this theory is to provide nursing care with the patient in a collaborative manner rather than the nurse simply performing tasks (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003).
Another nursing theory is that of Jean Watson whose developmental theory centers around the act of caring (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003). According to Watson, there are unique factors and assumptions related to caring to promote the healing process and therapeutic relationships (Tourville & Ingalls, 2003). This theory asserts that caring can be exchanged interpersonally, caring satisfies human needs, caring environment allows patients to make best decisions, and caring is related to curing, among other assumptions (University of Tulsa, 2023).
Both of these theories focus on the nurse/patient relationship. Peplau’s theory focuses on the stages of the relationship and emphasizes that the nurse and patient must work together to obtain common goals. On the other hand, Watson theorizes that nursing centers solely around care, and the act of caring strengthens interpersonal relationships and promotes healing. Both theories may be utilized at the bedside and share the goal of health promotion and quality patient care. As an emergency department nurse, it is difficult to establish meaningful or long-term relationships with patients as demonstrated by Peplau’s theory. Instead, in an environment with such high turnover and patients of all different acuities, it is important to show them that you simply care. Showing kindness and caring about the patient and their family in the moment has proven to promote trust among the nurse/patient/family and allow patients/families to make decisions and receive quality care without feeling as if they are dismissed. No matter how long the interaction may be, whether days or minutes, the nurse may demonstrate a caring and kind nature.
Tourville, C., & Ingalls, K. (2003). The living tree of nursing theories. Nursing Forum, 38(3), 21-30, 36. DOI:10.1111/j.0029-6473.2003.t01-1-00021.x
University of Tulsa. (2023, May 17). How the theory of human caring applies to nursing. The University of Tulsa. https://online.utulsa.edu/blog/theory-of-human-caring/#:~:text=Registered%20nurse%20Jean%20Watson%20developed,sick%2C%20and%20restoring%20health.%E2%80%9D
