Premium Essay

A Pragmatic View of Jean Watson’s Caring Theory

In:

Submitted By pos1t1ve
Words 6985
Pages 28
A Pragmatic View of Jean Watson’s Caring Theory
Chantal Cara, Ph.D., RN
Université de Montréal
Faculty of Nursing
Goals
Provide an overview of Dr. Jean Watson’s caring theory to the nursing community.
Facilitate the understanding of her work allowing nurses to readily apply this knowledge within their practice.
Objectives
Describe the general aspects of Watson’s caring theory.
Describe how Watson’s caring theory can be applied to clinical practice.
Describe the person through Watson’s caring lens.
Describe the person’s health through Watson’s caring lens.
Describe nursing through Watson’s caring lens.
Key Words: Watson’s caring theory, clinical caritas processes, transpersonal caring relationships, caring occasion, clinical application of Watson’s theory
Abstract
As most health care systems around the world are undergoing major administrative restructuring, we expose ourselves to the risk of dehumanizing patient care. If we are to consider caring as the core of nursing, nurses will have to make a conscious effort to preserve human caring within their clinical, administrative, educational, and/or research practice. Caring must not be allowed to simply wither away from our heritage.
To help preserve this heritage, caring theories such as those from Jean Watson, Madeleine
Leininger, Simone Roach, and Anne Boykin are vital. Through this continuing education paper we will learn the essential elements of Watson’s caring theory and explore an example of a clinical application of her work.

Introduction
The changes in the health care delivery systems around the world have intensified nurses’ responsibilities and workloads. Nurses must now deal with patients’ increased acuity and complexity in regard to their health care situation. Despite such hardships, nurses must find ways to preserve their caring practice and Jean Watson’s caring theory

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Jean Watson

...find ways to improve patient care and have significantly increase patient health outcomes. This historical perspective essay will focus on the works of Jean Watson and how it has significantly influences the nursing profession. Jean Watson as a Theorist and Watson’s Paradigm Jean Watson developed the theory on human caring that focuses on the care towards the individual, families, and groups. Watson describes caring as a different way of being human and nursing is through helping an individual achieve a higher degree of harmony with the mind, body, and soul (Suliman, Welmann, Omer, & Thomas, 2009). The nurse goes beyond the physical assessment of the individual and into a deeper understanding of the individual’s perception of the situation. Nursing focuses on assisting and helping the individual achieve harmony with self through a transpersonal caring relationship. The theory provides balance through identifying and describing how nurses provide care, in a carative than curative orientation (Sitzman, 2007). The awareness of the interconnectedness of all beings by the nurse, provision of care would not just be based on the physical needs of the patient but rather the nurse will be able to provide a more holistic patient care. Jean Watson’s Contribution to the Nursing Profession Watson’s theory of caring emphasis that caring endorses our professional identity and understanding humanistic behavior is important in healing. It is imperative that the nurse must know that the mind...

Words: 485 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Bibliography

...accident and emergency. It looks into nursing theory and research about three distinct experiences from the author. I found the article to be of interest in regards to the topic of barriers in forming the nurse-patient relationship in the emergency setting. Being an ER nurse I can relate to the authors thinking. It can be difficult to establish a relationship due to the limited time spent with the patient. Most relationships can be viewed as “superficial” or “if existing at all”. The nurse could also experience a short but memorable and intense relationship in the emergency setting. The author discusses three distinct relationships and examines them using nursing theory. Cara, C. (2003). A Pragmatic View of Jean Watson's Caring Theory. International Journal for Human Caring, 7(3), 51-61. The article discusses essential components of Watson’s caring theory and the use in the clinical setting, application, and show how to apply it to the practice setting. It gives a brief overview of the caring theory and gives background information about Jean Watson. The author goes over a clinical scenario and applies nursing theory. The author wants to help other nurses understand and apply nursing theory into their nursing practice. Foster, R.L. (2006, October). A Perspective on Watson's Theory of Human Caring. Nursing Science Quarterly, 19(4), 332-333. The author gives a brief look at Watson’s theory of human caring. She discusses some key...

Words: 531 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Imprortance of Theory: Jean Watson’s Caring Theory

...IMPRORTANCE OF THEORY: JEAN WATSON’S CARING THEORY NR 501 Teresa Acosta Chamberlain College of Nursing IMPRORTANCE OF THEORY: Jean Watson’s Caring Theory Currently, healthcare systems all over the world are experiencing some sort of reorganization at the administration level. Things are changing, practice and healthcare policy continue to transform at a rapid rate. Nursing theory has worked to provide stability and rationality to the ever changing field of nursing. The profession of nursing, just like any other profession, must work to prove the legitimacy of its practice which is accomplished through the confines of theory (McCrae, 2012). According to Alligood (2014), nursing theory not only fosters the development of nursing education and literature but also assists in practice advancement. This is important for laying a foundation and progressing in the field of nursing and helps to provide the basic knowledge for nursing care that involves “caring”. With all the change and uncertainty in healthcare, human caring has the potential to become a lost cause (Cara, 2003). Caring should be a central theme in nursing and the foundation of all nursing care (Watson, 2009). The goal of this paper is to explore and summarize the central ideas of Jean Watson’s Theory of Caring and to apply her theory to current practice and show its relevance...

Words: 1597 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Watson and Pauley

...Two of the major theories of nursing have been published by Jean Watson and by John Paley, who each have taken markedly distinct approaches to conceptualizing nursing care in a theoretical construct. This paper will provide a discussion of Jean Watson’s background, including educational preparation and process of developing her Care Theory as well as her career high points, discussion of Jean’s Watson’s Care Theory, including major points, discussion of John Paley’s background, including education preparation and his career high points, brief discussion of Friedich Nietzsche, specifically his major philosophical beliefs, compare Jean Watson’s Care Theory with the ideas presented in John Paley’s article, and contrast Jean Watson’s Care Theory with the ideas presented in John Paley’s article . Jean Watson, who hails from West Virginia, was educated at the University of Colorado where she earned a baccalaureate degree in nursing, 1964. She also earned her master’s degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing, and her doctorate in educational psychology and counseling at University of Colorado. While serving as dean of University of Colorado School of Nursing, she was instrumental in the development of a post baccalaureate nursing curriculum in human caring that would lead to a career professional clinical. She was appointed Distinguished Professor of Nursing and endowed Chair in Caring Science at the same university. Watson has published numerous books describing her philosophy...

Words: 2005 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Jean Watson's Research Paper

...Jean Watson’s Theory of Caring Analaura Rodriguez NUR 403 September 12, 2011 Kimberly Frommel For years caring and nursing have been interconnected. Most people choose nursing because of their passion to care for others and that is why this has led to caring being a central part of nursing and has opened the doors to the development of several caring theories. One well known caring theory was developed in the 1970’s by an American nursing scholar and nursing theorist named Dr. Jean Watson. Her theory is called “The Theory of Human Caring”. Dr. Jean Watson was born in West Virginia, but currently resides in Boulder, Colorado since 1962. She attended the University of Colorado where she completed her undergraduate degree in nursing and psychology. Shortly after that, Dr. Watson continues her studies and earned a master’s degree in psychiatric –mental health nursing. Dr. Watson ultimately received her PHD degree in educational psychology and counseling. She is currently a Professor of Nursing and the Murchinson-Scoville Chair in Caring Sciences at the University of Colorado, School of Nursing and is the founder of the Center for Human Caring in Colorado (Cara, 1999). Dr. Watson has received many recognitions including national, international, and doctoral degrees. There are many books that she has published explaining her philosophy and theory of human caring. Jean Watson’s theory states that nurses should view the patient as both a physical and spiritual...

Words: 2154 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Concept Comparison and Analysis Across Theories Paper

...Concept Comparison and Analysis across Theories Paper NUR 513 August 6, 2012 Comparison and Analysis Theories Paper The heart of nursing has always been caring. Since the start of professional nursing with Florence Nightingale, theorists have been writing about caring. This paper highlights three caring theories Madeleine Leininger, Jean Watson, and the combine theory of Patricia Benner and Judith Wrubel these theorists each has developed a theory of caring. This paper will examine each by comparing and contrasting on how each looks at caring. Leininger Madeline Leininger developed her first theories in the mid-1950s. Her main theory is transcultural nursing and caring theory. This theory was formed by an inadequate knowledge of cultural factors that represented a missing link to providing quality nursing care. Leininger believed that caring is universally present in all cultures (Nelson, 2006). Leininger’s definition of caring for nursing is “the central and unifying domain for the body of knowledge and practices in nursing’ It is critical to human growth, development and survival and has helped human beings through cultural evolution” (Cohen, 1991). Leininger’s transcultural theory of nursing her assumption human caring is a universal expression. However, patterns vary among different cultures. Caring has multiple dimensions of biophysical, psychological, cultural...

Words: 1722 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Watson Paper

...Jean Watson: A Review of the Theory of Caring Denise Lakin NUR 403 January 23, 2012 Dr. Candace Cane Jean Watson: A Review of the Theory of Caring Caring is heart of nursing, it is what nursing is about, the motivation behind interventions. Past, present, and future nurses use caring interventions and Watson’s theory of caring to provide a holistic approach complimenting medical care and aiding in patient healing often without realizing it. Patients are admitted to facilities for nursing care. Analysis of the major components of the theory of caring give some background on the theory, as well as practical applications of the theory to professional experience. Ever since the days of Florence Nightingale nurses have used their ability to possess a holistic approach to improve the care of those served; Jean Watson was no different. According to Erci, Sayan, Tortumluoglu, Kilic, Sahin, & Gungorumus (2003), Watson’s theory is considered the framework that combines the art and science of caring and is the foundation of nursing practice that is composed of ten carative factors that can provide a guide to effective interventions. Watson’s theory is the essence of nursing. In today’s healthcare environment where minimization of resources are occurring it is more imperative than ever that we do not lose that healing and caring touch. Theories such as Watson’s can help guide us as we determine the interventions that are appropriate for our patients and help us maintain a...

Words: 1844 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring

...WATSON'S THEORY 2 Abstract Dr. Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring was released in 1979, and has continued to evolve over the past three decades. Watson's theory describes a philosophical foundation for nursing, which puts caring at the center of practice. It focuses on patient centered care, with emphasis on developing a trusting mutual bond. The caring environment allows for optimal health promotion, growth, empowerment, and disease prevention. The present paper discusses the theory's main concepts, and the significance of the model to nurses, nurse practioners, and health organizations. As well as, how the theory applies to my personal nursing philosophy. WATSON'S THEORY 3 Watson's Theory of Human Caring Many people choose to go into the field of nursing because of one's love to provide care for others. However, with the advancement in medical technology, task-oriented mentalities, heavy patient loads due to nursing shortages, and high paced environments, developing a caring relationship with a patient tends to take a backseat (Watson, 2009). Many organizations have shifted their practices to focus on patient-centered care. St. Luke's Medical center, the organization I work for, believes that caring for the whole person helps create a more personalized healing environment. This allows caregivers to focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit of the patient (Aurora Health Care, 2012). In my profession, I work hard to try and...

Words: 3019 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

Watson

...Watson’s Theory of Caring James Farrell University of Phoenix Health & Chronic Disease Management NUR/403 Judith McLeod September 9, 2012 Jean Watson Theory of Caring The purpose of this paper is to explore Jean Watson’s Theory of Transpersonal Human Caring, and the major concepts of Watson’s theory, including the caring moment, the carative factors, and the transpersonal caring theory itself. Then the theory will be applied to an actual nurse to patient interaction. The paper will illustrate the caring moment between the patient and nurse. Watson’s major assumptions will be further discussed in relation to person, health, environment, and nursing. The carative factors will be utilized in a transpersonal relationship with the application of five carative factors. In conclusion the paper will include a reflection of my experience within the carative moment, my learning process, and what I could have done differently to enhance the transpersonal relationship. Background of Watson’s theory Jean Watson was born in West Virginia United States and obtained her first degree of BSN in 1964 from the University of Colorado, Masters in 1966 and PhD in 1973 from the same university. She is currently the Dean of Nursing at the University Health Sciences Center and President of the National League for Nursing. Jean Watson’s first book, “Nursing: the philosophy and science of caring”, was published...

Words: 2331 - Pages: 10

Premium Essay

Nurse

...The Essence of Nursing Caring defines nursing as curing often defines medicine. Caring and nursing are so interwined that nursing always appeared on the same page in a Google search for the definition of caring. According to the dictionary definition of caring, it is a feeling and exhibiting concern and empathy for others; showing or having compassion . As the definition shows, caring is a feeling that also requires an action. Dr. Jean Watson’s theory is important to nursing due to the central concept of caring. Watson states that, “a caring attitude is not transmitted from generation to generation by genes. It is transmitted by the culture of the profession as a unique way of coping with its environment” ( 1979). Her theory is grounded in key concepts that are critical to compassionate nursing care. Watson believes that at the core of nursing, are the nurse–patient relationships that result in a therapeutic outcome. Hers is a theory of human caring that has a foundation in dignity, respect and trust. Watson’s theory and her four major concepts of human being, health, environment and nursing can be applied to the problem of frequent hospitalization due to non-compliance issues that occur. Human Being Nurses that work in hospitals that provide health care for people with poor socio-economic status often experience “frequent flyers”. An example of such patient is Mr.K, a 56 year old African American male admitted with hypertensive urgency...

Words: 1299 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Jean Watson

...Watson's Theory of Caring Alice Bennett NUR 403 June 28th 2011 Vicki Grosdidier, MSN Watson's Theory of Caring In this paper I will describe Jean Watson’s background of her theory, and provide concepts of her theory. In addition, I will relate her theory to person, health, nursing, and environment of the caring moment and provide a transpersonal relationship and relate the factors within my experience. Background and concepts of Watson’s Theory Dr. Jean Watson was born in West Virginia and moved to Boulder, Colorado in 1962. She earned a bachelor of science in nursing and psychology while attending the University of Colorado. Jean continued her education and received her master’s degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing. In addition, she earned her Ph.D. in education psychology and counseling. She taught at the University of Colorado School of Nursing and is the founder of the Center for Human Caring in Colorado. She has written many books discussing her philosophy and theory of human caring. Watson calls caring the ethical principle or standard by which curing interventions are measured (Alligood, 2006). Watson’s caring theory evolves in a global state no longer limited to facility settings. Watson’s theory is the development of a caring fluid experience expanding from the person to the community onward to society. The three major elements of Watson’s theory are the carative factors, the transpersonal caring...

Words: 2144 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Watson's Theory of Human Caring

...Watson's Theory of Human Caring Iris Wilkins University of Phoenix Nursing Theory 403 Dr. Elizabeth Wider May 12, 2014 Watson's Theory of Human Caring Dr. Jean Watson was born in Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia in the 1940s. She graduated from the Lewis Gale School of Nursing in Roanoke Virginia in 1961.She progressed through her nursing education by obtaining her bachelor’s degree in 1964, a master of science in nursing in psychiatric and mental health nursing in 1966, and a Ph.D. in educational psychology and counseling in 1973, all from the University of Colorado at Boulder. (McEwen & Wills, 2007). Today she serves as a legendary Professor of Nursing and holds an endowed Chair in Caring Science at the University of Colorado and is a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing. She is the author of more than 14 books on caring and holds six honorary doctorates. Recently she founded Watson Caring Science Institute, a nonprofit organization developed to help spread her nursing theory and ideas. (Cara n.d.). In 1979, Dr. Watson established the Theory of Human Caring, her theory is the cornerstone guiding personal and professional nursing practices today. Her philosophical beliefs are based on morals/ethics and grounded in a foundation of having love for your fellow man. Her theory has three primary concepts, carative factors, transpersonal caring relationships and caring occasion or caring moment. Watson (1988). “According to Watson (1988) a caring...

Words: 1782 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Application Theory

...The Application of Watson’s Caring Theory Name Institution Affiliation Application of Watson’s Caring Theory Human Caring Theory by Jean Watson contributes to the existential nursing. It concentrates on authentically caring concerning the whole patient. This caring involves the patient’s spirit, body and mind to facilitate the healing process to persist at an optimum level (Watson, 2011). Watson defined it as a caring model, which includes both science and art; providing a framework that intersects with and embraces science, art, spirituality, humanities, and new dimensions of spirit-body-mind medicine in addition to nursing. The essay describes the idea of Watson’s theory, the application of Human Caring theory in nursing practice connected to personal case, and the relevance of Human Caring theory in nursing leadership related to nursing problem. Watson supposes that the theory is ever changing and ought to be open to the evolving nursing practice as well as the human phenomena dynamics. Watson elaborates by explaining that caring art and science goes past an intellectualization of the subject luring us into endless, but timely space to re-examine the recurrent phenomenon of the human ailment. Using such abstract notions of faith, love, hope, caring, trust, and spirituality to nursing art and science could help stratify the human caring concept (Watson, 2011). The current nursing practice is incredibly affected by the theories designed by Dr. Watson...

Words: 2036 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Watson's Theory

...Watson's Theory of Human Caring Paper Allison M Wood, RN NUR/403 March 17, 2012 Shoni Davis, RN DNSc Watson's Theory of Human Caring Paper Dr. Jean Watson was born in West Virginia and has resided in Boulder, Colorado, since 1962. She earned her undergraduate degree in nursing and psychology, her master’s degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing, and her Ph.D. in educational psychology and counseling from the University of Colorado. She is currently a Professor of Nursing and the Murchinson-Scoville Chair in Caring Science at the University of Colorado (Cara, 2003). Dr. Watson is the founder of the Center for Human Caring in Colorado and is a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing. She has received a number of national and international honors, and honorary doctoral degrees. She has published various works relating her theory of human caring, which have been studied by nurses and nursing students over the world. According to Watson (2001), the chief essentials of her theory are (a) the carative factors, (b) the transpersonal caring relationship, and (c) the caring moment. Carative Factors Watson first developed the “carative factors” as taxonomy of interventions in 1979, which she views as a constitution of the foundation of nursing when all of the medical techniques and technologies are removed (Sourial, 1995). She further assembled these ideas into a nursing...

Words: 1762 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Watson's Caring Theory

...Background of Watson’s Theory: Watson’s Caring Theory originated from her writings in a textbook that was used for a nursing curriculum in Colorado. In her writings the question between the relationship of nursing and human caring gave way to what is now her Theory of Human Caring. Her writings posed as the foundation of what became her theory. Alligood states, “ Watson defines caring as the ethical and moral idea of nursing that has interpersonal and humanistic qualities ” ( Alligood, 2010 ). Watson’s theory focused on the art of caring for the patient entirely. This involved the mind, body and spirit. Her theory provides a model for nursing, allowing nurses to give quality care to patients in every aspect of the person. Watson’s Theory of Human Caring is divided into three elements: the element of transpersonal caring, the element of Carative factors. The element of transpersonal caring gears towards going beyond caring for the patient’s health and includes caring for their humanity. The element of Carative factors are the framework that provides meaning to nursing in general. They are a set of guidelines that promote caring for the patient entirely. The element of the caring moment occurs when the nurse and patient form a human to human transaction that involves caring for the mind, body and spirit. The Caring Moment: The caring moment is defined as coming together in a moment that provides the opportunity for human caring to occur. ( Alligood, 2010). The caring moment creates...

Words: 1441 - Pages: 6