The Concept of Human in Nursing

Amelia Roses (UNC2021-5678) Bachelor of Science in Nursing COMPREHENSIVE NOTES : THE CONCEPT OF HUMAN IN NURSING Understanding human beings is the cornerstone of nursing practice. This concept views humans as biopsychosocial and spiritual beings who are unique and whole. Biopsychosocial refers to four fundamental human dimensions: 1. Biological Dimension: This encompasses the body, its structures, functions, and processes. It relates to the physical aspects of an individual, such as organs, body systems, and physiological processes. (Imagine a diagram of the human body with labeled organs and systems) For example, a nurse needs to understand how the respiratory system works to provide proper care for a patient with lung disease. 2. Psychological Dimension: This encompasses thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and cognitive development. It relates to the mental and emotional aspects of an individual, including how they think, feel, and behave, as well as how they learn and grow. (Imagine a person with different facial expressions representing various emotions) For example, a nurse needs to understand how depression can affect a patient's behavior and how to provide appropriate emotional support. 3. Social Dimension: This encompasses interactions with others, interpersonal relationships, and social roles. It relates to how individuals connect with others, build relationships, and participate in social life. (Imagine a diverse group of people interacting and socializing) For example, a nurse needs to understand how family relationships can influence a patient's recovery and how to help patients re-adapt to social life after hospitalization. 4. Spiritual Dimension: This encompasses beliefs, values, life purpose, and connection to a higher power. It relates to the spiritual and religious aspects of an individual, such as their faith, values, and search for meaning in life. (Imagine a person meditating or praying) For example, a nurse needs to understand how a patient's spiritual beliefs can influence how they cope with illness and how to provide appropriate spiritual support. Unique means that every individual has different characteristics, experiences, and needs. Each person has a unique background, personality, talents, and way of viewing the world. (Imagine a collage of diverse faces representing different ethnicities and backgrounds). For example, nurses need to understand that each patient has a unique experience with illness and will have different care needs. Whole means that all human dimensions are interconnected and influence each other. These dimensions are inseparable and interact with each other. An individual's health and well-being are affected by the balance and harmony within all dimensions. (Imagine a Venn diagram with overlapping sections labeled "Biological," "Psychological," "Social," and "Spiritual"). For example, a nurse needs to understand how psychological stress can affect a patient's physical health and how to provide comprehensive interventions to manage stress and improve the patient's overall health. The concept of human in nursing emphasizes several important aspects: 1. Respect for Individual Dignity and Values: Nurses must respect individuals as whole and valuable human beings, with all their unique qualities and differences. For example, nurses need to respect patient privacy and avoid making assumptions about patients based on their background or beliefs. 2. Human as an Active Partner in Healing: Nurses view individuals as active partners in the healing process, not passive recipients of care. For example, nurses should involve patients in decision-making about their care and encourage them to actively participate in their own recovery. 3. Individual-Centered Care: The care provided should focus on the specific needs, goals, and preferences of the individual. For example, nurses need to develop individualized care plans that address the patient's specific needs and involve the patient in the planning process. 4. Importance of Holistic Understanding: Nurses must understand individuals comprehensively, not just focusing on one dimension alone. For example, nurses need to understand how biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors can influence a patient's health and how to provide comprehensive care. Understanding the concept of human is essential for nurses to: 1. Provide Quality, Individualized Care: Nurses must understand individuals holistically to provide appropriate care that meets their specific needs. For example, nurses need to understand how a patient's cultural and religious beliefs might influence their view of illness and how to provide culturally competent health education. 2. Build Therapeutic Relationships with Patients: A strong therapeutic relationship between a nurse and a patient is crucial for effective care and achieving positive outcomes. By understanding the concept of human, nurses can foster these relationships by: 3. Demonstrating empathy and compassion: Nurses should actively listen to patients, understand their concerns, and show genuine care for their well-being. (Imagine a nurse sitting with a patient, listening attentively and offering a supportive touch) 4. Respecting patient autonomy: Nurses should involve patients in decision-making about their care, respecting their choices and preferences. (Imagine a nurse discussing treatment options with a patient and explaining the pros and cons of each option) 5. Providing effective communication: Nurses should communicate clearly, using language that patients can understand, and adapting their communication style to the patient's needs. (Imagine a nurse using simple language, avoiding jargon, and checking for understanding with the patient) 6. Maintaining confidentiality: Nurses must protect patients' privacy and confidentiality, ensuring that their personal information is safeguarded. (Imagine a nurse securely storing patient records and discussing patient information only with authorized personnel) 7. Promoting trust and rapport: Nurses should build trust with patients by being honest, reliable, and consistent in their care. (Imagine a nurse consistently providing care to a patient, building trust over time) Examples of Applying the Concept of Human in Nursing Practice: 1. A nurse caring for a patient with anxiety: The nurse understands that anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms, such as increased heart rate and shortness of breath. The nurse provides calming techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, and creates a peaceful environment to help manage the patient's anxiety. 2. A nurse providing care for a patient from a different cultural background: The nurse takes the time to learn about the patient's cultural beliefs and values, ensuring that care aligns with the patient's cultural preferences. For instance, the nurse may involve a family member or interpreter in communication and decision-making. 3. A nurse supporting a patient facing spiritual distress: The nurse assesses the patient's spiritual needs and offers support that aligns with the patient's beliefs. This may involve providing religious materials, facilitating contact with a spiritual leader, or simply offering a listening ear.