Watson's Theory of Human Caring
Jean Watsons Theory of Human Caring encompasses humanitarian, holistic, and personal traits of a nurse. This theory accentuates the humanistic characteristics of nursing with scientific understanding. The theory was developed to emphasize the value of nursing as a profession. According to Ward (2009) “She views the human as a valued person to be respected, cared for, nurtured and understood. She believes we need to view the person in a general philosophical way that is fully integrated, rather than just some of his or her parts” (p. 20).
The major concepts of Watson’s Theory are basically being the genuine, kind, loving and altruistic person you truly are. It is being non-judgmental and having a moral and philosophical relationship with the patient. It is transcending to a higher level of caring to view a patient as a whole and not as parts or pieces affected by illness. It is being the person that brings hope and comfort to someone in need. Watson’s Theory teaches nurses to be selfless and to provide authentic care without even speaking. The theory is based on knowing yourself through meditation or self reflection so you can be harmonious with others. Whether or not we are "feeling caring" as we enter the patient's space, we influence and impact that person positively or negatively. (Fights, 2010)
Recently I had the opportunity to speak with a patient who was newly diagnosed with stage III lung cancer. Her prognosis was grim and she was truly devastated. When I received shift report, I was informed that the patient was inconsolable and adamant about going home as soon as possible. My initial thought was that this was not going to be a good night. It is extremely unusual to be able to stay in a room with a patient for longer than 10 minutes, but on this holiday weekend the floor was unusually quiet. As I rounded with another nurse, we were just about the enter the room of the patient I had heard so much about...
