Definition: The Henderson theory of nursing encompasses a definition of nursing, a description of the function of the nurse, and the enumeration of the 14 components that make up basic nursing care.
Description: The Henderson theory of nursing was developed by Virginia Henderson. She did not believe that she was setting out a theory, and preferred it to be thought as a definition. Whether it is considered a definition or a theory, it has had a wide influence on concept and practice of nursing.
BACKGROUND
• “The Nightingale of Modern Nursing”
• “Modern-Day Mother of Nursing.”
• "The 20th century Florence Nightingale."
• Born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1897.
• Received a Diploma in Nursing from the Army School of Nursing at Walter Reed Hospital, Washington, D.C. in 1921.
• Worked at the Henry Street Visiting Nurse Service for 2 years after graduation.
• In 1923, started teaching nursing at the Norfolk Protestant Hospital in Virginia
• In 1929, entered Teachers College at Columbia University for Bachelor’s Degree in 1932, Master’s Degree in 1934.
• Joined Columbia as a member of the faculty, remained until 1948.
• Since 1953, a research associate at Yale University School of Nursing.
• recipient of numerous recognitions.
• Her work influenced the nursing profession throughout the world.
• awell known nursing educator and a prolific author.
• honorary doctoral degrees from the Catholic University of America, Pace University, University of Rochester, University of Western Ontario, Yale University
• In 1985, honored at the Annual Meeting of the Nursing and Allied Health Section of the Medical Library Association.
• Died: March 19, 1996.
• In 1939, she revised: Harmer’s classic textbook of nursing for its 4th edition, and later wrote the 5th; edition, incorporating her personal definition of nursing (Henderson,1991)
School of thoughts in Nursing Theories-1950-1970
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