Why is it Important to Articulate Your Personal Philosophy of Nursing?
Nurses often feel a conflict between the ideals of the profession and the reality of the job. Deheny (2001) writes “demands and expectations of the role are greater than the resources or number of hours in the day to accomplish what nurses would define as quality nursing care” (para. 1). Also, the use of advanced technology can create emotional withdrawal from the patient as the nurse focuses more on the machines than the person. These factors increase job dissatisfaction and emotional burnout. To articulate one’s personal philosophy requires examining the values and beliefs that define a person. Masters (2014) writes, “the overall purpose of personal philosophy is to define how one finds truth” (pg. 100). With a knowledge of personal values and beliefs, the nurse can examine why they entered the nursing field. With this introspective activity, the nurse can find balance and meaning in the workplace (Deheny, 2001).
What is the Relationship Between Your Personal Philosophy of Nursing and Your Professional Practice?
My personal philosophy of nursing is based on caring and compassion. With these core beliefs, I strive to provide the best patient-centered care that I am capable of. Like many of my colleagues, the demands of nursing tire me emotionally and physically. The reduction in staff to patient ratio creates a tense environment. Our staff is under constant pressure to perform more work and to increase company profits. Demerouti, Baker, Nachreiner, and Wilmar (2000) write that the strong demand of the nursing field leads to exhaustion and disengagement. To counteract the stresses of my job, I make it a point to make myself completely available to at least one patient every shift. During this time, the patient has my complete attention. I forget about the notes I need to write and