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Case Study: Florence Nightingale Theory Of Nursing

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It is very easy to get wrapped up in the day to day tasks that we complete as nurses. But in order to give our patients the best possible care, we must look at our day through a holistic lens. The following essay will outline the theory as created by the “lady with the lamp” Florence Nightingale. We will look at the different components that are important to a patient’s health and outline on to incorporate these components into current practice. Florence Nightingale Theory of Nursing Upon initial assessment of Mrs. Adams case, many things are out of line according to the theory of nursing by Florence Nightingale. To begin an assessment would be to use your sense of observation as the way to collect and verify data…show more content…
Adams, it is important to address all areas from a holistic standpoint. This would include psychosocial, environmental and medical interventions. While providing care it is important to remember Florence Nightingale’s goal of nursing is to “assist the patient to regain “vital powers” by meeting their needs, which in the end puts the patient in the best condition for nature to act upon.” (Smith & Parker, 2015). Nightingale believed that nurses contribute to restoring health in a direct and indirect way by the management of patient’s environment (Smith & Parker, 2015). As the assessment begins for Mrs. Adams there are many things that need to be addressed. Educating the patient on active participation in her healing will be of extreme importance. The interventions are only as good as the patient’s willingness to comply. We would need to begin with gaining control of the cleanliness of the apartment and that of Mrs. Adams. Opening the windows and allowing the sunlight to enter is important along with attempts at fixing the air conditioner. A further psychosocial assessment will need to be done. Mrs. Adams has recently lost her husband and is having a financial hardship. Due to financial hardship, Mrs. Adams is unable to keep food…show more content…
From newborn babies to those at end of life, the environmental theory of Florence Nightingale can benefit all populations. A specific population to apply the Florence Nightingale theory to is patients at end of life and hospice care. A patient and family choosing hospice care are in need of a holistic care plan. The goal of hospice care is to reduce symptoms, prevent hospitalizations and maintain quality of life until the end. Psychosocially a patient and family need time to understand and accept the diagnosis. Providing education to the family and patient about what to expect will relieve the stress of the unknown. It is necessary to readdress taught information as reinforcement will provide an increase in confidence. In addition to providing emotional support, it will be important to help the family organize the patient’s environment. Setting up a hospital bed up in an area that is free of clutter, with room for family members to deliver care. Teaching patients how to change linens on the patient 's bed when the patient is unable to
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