NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-500: Foundational Concepts & Applications

Prof. Name:

Date

Introduction

Caring is a foundational element of the nursing profession, forming the essence of nursing practice. Nursing and caring are inherently connected, with caring encompassing attentiveness, sensitivity to a patient’s values, and the ability to communicate effectively. Effective communication ensures that the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients are addressed. According to Andersson et al. (2015), caring is most evident when patients are actively engaged in their own care, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding their health. This collaborative approach allows nurses to tailor their care based on individual patient needs. Furthermore, a holistic approach to patient care is essential, as it acknowledges the uniqueness of each individual and incorporates alternative therapies alongside conventional medical treatments to promote overall health and healing (Papathanasiou, Sklavou, & Kourkouta, 2013).

Definition of Caring

Caring in nursing involves demonstrating compassion while addressing the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of patients. The core of nursing lies in delivering the highest quality care to promote optimal health outcomes. Human beings are complex, encompassing not just biological but also emotional and spiritual dimensions (Papathanasiou, Sklavou, & Kourkouta, 2013). Nursing and caring are deeply interconnected, requiring sensitivity to each patient’s individuality. This sensitivity helps build trust and enhances interpersonal relationships, which are crucial for the healing process. When care is patient-centered and considers the whole person, it fosters a supportive and nurturing environment that contributes to effective healing.

Expression of Caring

An example that illustrates the concept of caring involves a nurse who demonstrated attentiveness to both the physical and emotional needs of a patient. In this case, a patient who had endured multiple hospitalizations and struggled with depression due to surgical scars found comfort through the compassionate presence of a healing touch practitioner. Drahošová and Jarošová (2016) emphasized that nurses play a critical role as guardians of patient well-being, advocating for their best interests while ensuring holistic care. Nurses not only address physical symptoms but also provide emotional and spiritual support, reinforcing their role as caregivers and patient advocates. Their ability to integrate these aspects of care ensures that patients receive comprehensive, compassionate, and effective treatment.

Conclusion

Nurses hold a privileged position in caring for patients, serving as primary advocates who address not only physical but also emotional and spiritual needs. Although the definition of caring may vary depending on the interactions between nurses and patients (Drahošová & Jarošová, 2016), it remains a fundamental component of nursing practice. By fostering trust and building meaningful relationships, nurses create an environment that supports holistic healing and patient-centered care.

Table: Expression of Caring in Nursing

References

Andersson, E. K., Willman, A., Sjöström-Strand, A., & Borglin, G. (2015). Registered nurses’ descriptions of caring: A phenomenographic interview study. BMC Nursing, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-015-0067-9

Drahošová, L., & Jarošová, D. (2016). Concept of caring in nursing. Central European Journal of Nursing & Midwifery, 7(2), 453-461. https://doi.org/10.15452/CEJNM.2016.07.0014

NR 500 Week 2 Artistic Expression Caring Concept Assignment

Papathanasiou, I., Sklavou, M., & Kourkouta, L. (2013). Holistic nursing care: Theories and perspectives. American Journal of Nursing Science, 2(1), 1-5. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajns.20130201.11