NUR/403 Theories and Models of Nursing Practice
University of Phoenix
Watson’s Carative Theory
Jean Watson’s Carative Nursing Theory is a balance of developing a caring relationship between nurse and patient, and the curative factor of the medical aspect of nursing. Watson’s theory is based on ten clinical caritas processes of mindful and genuine caring activities.
As a registered nurse, I have had the pleasure and honor to use Jean Watson’s Carative Theory with patients in my care. One caring moment in particular has remained in my mind and in my heart. It will always be a precious moment to reflect on, and continues to reinforce the brilliance and necessity of Jean Watson’s Carative Theory in my nursing profession.
Background and Concepts of Watson’s Theory
In the latter part of the 1970’s Jean Watson had an idea to create a universal interconnectedness goal that supports healing, to include nurses of all disciplines. Her idea would include a common awareness and connection between nurse and patient. This connection incorporated healing from physical, philosophical, spiritual, and scientific perspectives. Establishing a relationship between nurse and patient would bring deeper conversations, create trusting and tighter bonds, and aid in a more rapid healing process for the patient (Sitzman, 2007).
Theory of Nurse and Patient Interaction To fully engage with my patients, I incorporate Watson’s first and second caritas into my regular nursing routine. Her first caring process is, “practicing loving-kindness within the context of an intentional caring consciousness” and the second, “being fully present in the moment and acknowledging the deep belief system and subjective life world of self and other” (Sitzman, 2007, p. 9). As I enter the room for the first time, I make eye contact as I introduce myself with a touch on their hand and a warm smile. This action lets the patient know that I genuinely
References: Cohen, J. (1991). Two portraits of caring: a comparison of the artists, Leininger and Watson. Journal Of Advanced Nursing, 16(8), 899-909. Retrieved from EBSCOhost. Hussey, T. (2009). Nursing and spirituality. Nursing Philosophy, 10(2), 71-80. Retrieved from EBSCOhost. Wadensten, B., & Carlsson, M. (2003). Nursing theory views on how to support the process of ageing. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 42(2), 118-124. Retrieved from EBSCOhost. Raudonis, B., & Acton, G. (1997). Theory-based nursing practice. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 26(1), 138-145. Retrieved from EBSCOhost. Sitzman, K. (2007). Teaching-learning professional caring based on Jean Watson 's Theory of Human Caring. International Journal for Human Caring. 11(4), 8-16. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.