Full Answer Section

Part 1: History, Theory, and Ethics

In approaching Mr. Garcia’s care, Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring provides a profound framework. Watson’s theory emphasizes the importance of the humanistic aspects of nursing, focusing on the transpersonal caring relationship between the nurse and patient. It moves beyond the traditional medical model to consider the patient’s subjective experiences, spirituality, and inner world. For Mr. Garcia, who is anxious and expresses a strong desire to practice his spiritual traditions, Watson’s theory would guide me to recognize his spiritual needs not as an add-on, but as central to his well-being and healing process. Instead of merely completing admission tasks, I would strive to create a caring moment, acknowledging his anxiety and validating his spiritual beliefs. This involves being present, listening actively, and recognizing his unique human dignity, fostering an environment where his spiritual practices can be integrated into his care plan. Watson’s Caritas Processes, such as “practicing loving-kindness and equanimity within the context of caring consciousness” and “allowing for and being open to existential-phenomenological and spiritual dimensions of caring,” directly apply here, urging me to approach Mr. Garcia with deep respect for his inner world and cultural background.

From an ethical standpoint, the principle of autonomy is paramount in Mr. Garcia’s situation. Autonomy refers to the patient’s right to make decisions about their own healthcare, free from coercion or undue influence. This principle becomes complex when a patient has limited English proficiency and is anxious, as these factors can impede their ability to fully understand information and express their wishes. To uphold Mr. Garcia’s autonomy, my actions, under the RN’s supervision, would focus on ensuring he receives information in a way he can comprehend. This would necessitate the use of a certified medical interpreter, rather than relying on family members (who may inadvertently filter or misinterpret information) or attempting to communicate through gestures alone. I would ensure that any questions he has are fully addressed and that he has ample opportunity to express his preferences, particularly regarding his spiritual practices. For instance, if he expresses a desire for specific prayer times or dietary considerations related to his faith, upholding his autonomy means advocating for these needs to be met within the facility’s capabilities, ensuring his choices are respected as much as possible within the care plan.