I’m studying for my Health & Medical class and need an explanation.
1. What are your beliefs about the major concepts in nursing- person, environment, health, nursing?
2. Do you believe there is more than one right answer to situations? How do you value the whole individual? What barriers prevent us from responding to the contextual needs of our patients?
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor responsible for designing college assignments and evaluating student performance in a health and medical class, I have a strong understanding of the major concepts in nursing and the importance of considering the whole individual in healthcare. In this response, I will address the beliefs about the major nursing concepts and discuss the perception of multiple right answers to situations, the value placed on the whole individual, and the barriers that can hinder responding to the contextual needs of patients.
1. What are your beliefs about the major concepts in nursing- person, environment, health, nursing?
Beliefs about the major concepts in nursing vary among professionals, but my personal beliefs align with the holistic perspective in nursing. I perceive the person as more than just a patient; they are an individual with physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. This belief allows me to value and respect their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences.
Regarding the environment, I believe that it plays a crucial role in influencing an individual’s health and well-being. The environment can include the physical surroundings, social dynamics, and even the broader socio-political factors impacting health outcomes. Nurses should consider the environment when providing care and strive to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive healthcare setting.
Regarding health, I believe that it is a dynamic state of well-being encompassing physical, mental, and social aspects. Health is not merely the absence of illness, but rather a state of optimal functioning where individuals can pursue their goals and enjoy a good quality of life. Nurses should aim to promote health, prevent diseases, and empower individuals to take charge of their well-being.
Regarding nursing, I firmly believe that it is a noble profession centered around caring for and advocating for individuals, families, and communities. Nursing goes beyond providing medical interventions; it involves building trusting relationships, promoting health education, and coordinating comprehensive care. Nurses should possess strong clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and a compassionate approach to meet the diverse needs of their patients.
2. Do you believe there is more than one right answer to situations? How do you value the whole individual? What barriers prevent us from responding to the contextual needs of our patients?
Yes, I strongly believe that there can be more than one right answer to situations in healthcare. Each patient is unique, and their circumstances, values, and preferences can significantly influence the appropriate course of action. It is essential for healthcare professionals, including nurses, to embrace a patient-centered approach that recognizes the individuality and autonomy of each person.
Valuing the whole individual means acknowledging and addressing their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. It involves looking beyond the presenting medical condition and understanding the broader context in which the patient lives. By considering various aspects of the person’s life, nurses can provide holistic care that promotes overall well-being and enhances patient outcomes.
Several barriers can prevent healthcare professionals from responding adequately to the contextual needs of patients. These barriers may include time constraints, lack of resources, organizational constraints, and inadequate communication channels. Additionally, biases or stereotypes can also hinder healthcare providers from fully understanding and addressing their patients’ needs. Overcoming these barriers requires a systems-based approach, improved resource allocation, cultural competence, and effective interdisciplinary collaboration.
In conclusion, as a medical professor responsible for designing assignments and evaluating student performance in a health and medical class, my beliefs regarding the major nursing concepts focus on the holistic perspective of person, environment, health, and nursing. I believe there can be multiple right answers to situations in healthcare, value the whole individual by considering their various dimensions, and recognize the barriers that can hinder responding to patients’ contextual needs. By embracing these beliefs, future medical professionals can become competent and compassionate caregivers, providing patient-centered care to diverse populations.
