Most Cherished Nursing Theory

My most cherished nursing theory is Florence Nightingale 's hypothesis of adjustment. Progression of wellbeing could be attributed to her theory of nursing practice. It is surprising how her speculation applies to particularly each and every part of today 's nursing. She cared for people and wanted to improve their quality of life. The focus of nursing in this model is to alter the patient 's environment in order to affect change in his or her health. The environmental factors that affect health, as identified in the theory, are: fresh air, pure water, sufficient food supplies, efficient drainage, cleanliness of the patient and environment, and light (particularly direct sunlight). All these aspects are important
in patient recovery and lacking one or more of them may diminish health. There are ten important concepts of the Environment Theory, also identified as Nightingale 's Canons: ventilation and warming, light and noise, cleanliness of the area, health of houses, bed and bedding, personal cleanliness, variety, offering hope and advice, food, and observation. Health is "not only to be well, but to be able to use well every power we have." Nightingale 's theory addresses disease on a literal level, explaining it as the absence of comfort. She observed that unsanitary environment contribute to illness; however, the environment may be modified such way that it can help in the recovery process. One of the basic changes she emphasized was hands washing; this is the key standard defend in human administrations and various complications could be avoided if practiced appropriately. She also observed that exposure to sunlight improves the health of the patient; a good diet and a relaxing environment are also important; Close friends and family expect a foremost part in the recovery of patients. Ventilation and warming is the last standards of Nightingale 's theory. Imagine centers with no ventilation or hotness. Patients may go into hypothermia or hyperthermia shock and the system could not have the ability to high temperature or ventilation. In her opinion the relationship between the nurse and the patient is different than the one between doctor and patient; the relationship between nurse and patient puts the patient in center and all the nursing actions are in the best interest for the patient. Nightingale believed that the caring process must meet the following criteria: nursing action must be mutually understood and agreed upon, it has to be patient and nurse oriented. Patient’s dignity, worth, autonomy and individuality should be considered at all times; “patient oriented” involves that the caring process be done based on patient’s needs and necessities; “nurse oriented” means that the nurse acts with the appropriate knowledge and skills in the best interest of the patient. Florence Nightingale’s Theory is one that every nurse should strive to achieve by maintaining a healthy environment not only for their patients, but also for themselves. Florence Nightingale provided a professional model for nursing organization. She was the first to use a theoretical foundation to nursing. Her thoughts have influenced nursing significantly. Applying Nightingale’s environmental model for my patient would evolve this way: I would work first to ensure the clinic space was set up in a culturally sensitive and respectful manner.
I would be sure the patient felt comfortable by ensuring privacy and by keeping the exam room quiet. I would have pictures of peaceful scenery on the walls. I would ask if he/she were hungry and if I could provide a nutritious snack during the visit in concordance with her/his prescribed die; I would be continually vigilant to watch for signs that the patient may be uncomfortable or uneasy and would adapt the clinical environment as needed. After establishing a nursing diagnosis, I would provide care, as needed, but also help the patient to obtain resources needed for support. Time would be spent discussing home life and resources currently being accessed. Determinants of health such as education, housing, nutrition, finances, and family dynamics would be assessed. As stated by Nightingale, “chattering hopes” (Nightingale, 1860) of promised recovery would be avoided, and instead an attempt made to empower the patient. When discharged, the patient would have a plan in place with resources to access their essential needs. If a safe house were required, he/she will collaborate with a social worker to find an appropriate space and provide a means of transportation. If nutritious food was needed, I would arrange for Meals on Wheels or provide contact with the local food bank. Resources for education or employment as required may be explored. By teaching the patient to manage their own environment by use of these resources, and with continued support, he/she would then have more control over his/her own optimal
wellness.

Works Cited

Nightingale F., (1860). Notes on nursing. What it is and what it is not. (1st American Edition). New York: D. Appleton and Company.
Cherry, Barbara & Jacob, Susan (2008). Contemporay Nursing: Issues, Trends & Management. Canada: Mosby Elsevier.