Theoretical Framework to Support Evidence-Based Practice

Full Answer Section

• Caring as the Foundation of Personhood: Caring is not just something that nurses do to patients; it's an inherent human capacity that nurses recognize and nurture in themselves and others. Caring relationships are seen as essential for human flourishing.  
• Nursing as a Caring Practice: Nursing is not solely about treating illnesses but about supporting and enhancing the personhood of individuals. This involves creating an environment that fosters caring and supports the unique needs and aspirations of each patient.  

Key Implications for Nursing Practice:

• Respect for Individuality: Recognizing the unique personality, values, and beliefs of each patient.
• Holistic Care: Addressing the whole person, not just the disease. This includes considering physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.  
• Creating a Caring Environment: Cultivating a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.  
• Empowerment: Empowering patients to take an active role in their own care and make informed decisions about their health.
• Self-Care for Nurses: Recognizing the importance of self-care for nurses to maintain their own well-being and ability to provide compassionate care.  

In essence, the Nursing as Caring Theory emphasizes that personhood is a dynamic and evolving process that is nurtured through caring relationships.

By recognizing and respecting the inherent worth and potential of each individual, nurses can provide truly holistic and person-centered care.  

Sample Answer

In the Nursing as Caring Theory developed by Boykin and Schoenhofer, personhood is a central concept. It's not just about treating a patient as a human being, but about recognizing and nurturing their unique essence as a caring person.  

Here's a breakdown of how personhood is viewed within this framework:

• Personhood as an Inherent Quality: Every individual possesses an inherent capacity for caring. This caring is not a trait to be acquired but an essential aspect of human existence. It's about the inherent goodness and potential for growth within each individual.  
• Personhood as a Process:
  Personhood is not a static state but an ongoing process of living and growing. It's about recognizing and nurturing the unique potential of each individual to live a meaningful and fulfilling life