In order to provide the right dimension of care to meet the individual needs of each patient, each component of the metaparadigm of nursing must be considered. This metaparadigm was first developed by Florence Nightingale and is still a valid and important tool nurses use every day. Its four components are person, environment, health and nursing each works to help the other for a better understanding and application of proper care (Fawcett, 1994).
The first paradigm refers not only to a person, but also to the families or social groups who are involved in the nursing treatment. A nurse’s care must extend beyond the patient and must involve their entire support network. The nurse must be aware of everything about the patient such as their beliefs, values, and personal preferences as well as involving the patient in decisions that will affect their recovery. This is part of establishing proper communication. Without proper communication, the patient might feel passive, as if they have no ownership over their own life. As a nurse, one must never forget that treatment goes beyond the physical; it is important to make the patient feel comfortable with their role and surroundings as well.
The environment plays a key role, which can be best explained in two ways: the internal and external environment. The internal environment refers to the patient’s own emotional, cultural, and social conditions. The external environment refers to where the patient receives their care. Additionally, the environment in which each individual exists will have an impact on the outcome of his or her health. Therefore, nurses must take into account the patients specific circumstances that he/she lives in and with this information, be able to devise a proper treatment method for them. A nurse’s understanding of the environments in relation to their patients can significantly affect the health status and even enhance the recovery.
Furthermore, it is important to understand the