Transpersonal Caring Theory Essay

The concept of caring is a significant skill and attribute to every healthcare professional. One specific caring theory that has been rutted in the foundation of nursing for many years is Watson’s Theory of Transpersonal Caring. Watson’s theory focuses on caring for the patient as a whole, meaning caring about the patient’s mind, body and spirit so that the patient can heal at an optimal level. This Transpersonal Caring Theory comprises of ten caritas processes that set the foundation for a caring relationship between patients and nurses that is essential to nursing practice (Alligood, 2018, pp. 66-72). After reviewing all of the different caritas processes, it is clear that one of them stands out in its relation to my specific critical incident. This caritas focuses on the development and sustainment of a helping, trusting and caring relationship between the patient and the nurse. A trusting relationship promotes the expression of both positive and negative feelings. The nurse must display congruence, empathy, effective communication, and nonpossessive warmth. Congruence involves the nurse being honest, authentic and genuine with the patient. Empathy is important, as the nurse needs to try to understand what the patient is feeling so they may be aware of their perceptions. Effective communication allows for
During the patient-centered care, the nurse and I asked questions in an open, nonjudgmental manner. I answered the patient’s questions with complete honesty and tried to understand the patient’s feelings so that I may provide the best treatment. The school nurse and I spoke in a manner that facilitates trust, so that the patient would feel comfortable to express his feelings. The trust that exists between nurses and patients is based on the simple concept: that the nurse is a qualified professional who puts the patient’s safety and best interest