Jean Watson’s influence on nursing practice is significant. As all theorists do, she has a perspective through which she views nursing care and practice. This activity will help frame the guiding principles of University of Phoenix curriculum through the application of theory-based thinking.
Describe the five patterns of knowledge and how they can be applied in nursing practice.
Summarize the main points of Jean Watson’s theory of human caring, including the 10 carative factors.
Determine how Jean Watson views the following patterns of knowledge:
- Empirical knowledge (the science)
- Esthetic knowledge (the art)
- Ethical knowing (what constitutes good actions for that patient)
- Personal knowing (nurse-patient relationship)
Explain which pattern(s) are more evident or easier to apply in Watson’s theory of human caring, citing specific examples to support your explanation.
Reflect on how you may (or do) use caring science in practice and cite a practice scenario in which you could or do apply the theory to patient care.
Cite a minimum of two sources in text and include a page or slide with APA-formatted references, depending on how you format your assignment.
Format your assignment as one of the following:
- 15- to 20-slide presentation with detailed speaker notes
- 15- to 20-minute oral presentation with detailed speaker notes
- 1,050- to 1,225-word paper
- Another format approved by your instructor
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As medical professionals, it is important to understand the various theories and perspectives that shape nursing care and practice. The following questions will delve into Jean Watson’s theory of human caring and explore how it can be applied in nursing practice. Additionally, we will discuss the patterns of knowledge and how they relate to Watson’s theory.
1. Describe the five patterns of knowledge and how they can be applied in nursing practice.
The five patterns of knowledge include empirical knowledge (the science), esthetic knowledge (the art), ethical knowing (what constitutes good actions for that patient), personal knowing (nurse-patient relationship), and emancipatory knowledge (how to empower patients to take control of their own health). These patterns of knowledge provide a framework for understanding the various aspects of nursing care and how they interact with one another. For example, empirical knowledge is important in understanding the science behind medical treatments, while esthetic knowledge is necessary for understanding how to administer those treatments in a compassionate and caring manner.
2. Summarize the main points of Jean Watson’s theory of human caring, including the 10 carative factors.
Jean Watson’s theory of human caring is based on the understanding that caring is at the center of medicine. The theory emphasizes the importance of establishing a caring relationship with patients to promote healing and wellness. The 10 carative factors include:
1. Formation of a humanistic-altruistic system of values
2. Instillation of faith-hope
3. Cultivation of sensitivity to self and others
4. Development of a helping-trust relationship
5. Promotion and acceptance of the expression of positive and negative feelings
6. Systematic use of the scientific problem-solving method for decision-making
7. Promotion of interpersonal teaching-learning
8. Provision for a supportive, protective, and/or corrective mental, physical, socio-cultural, and spiritual environment
9. Assistance with gratification of human needs
10. Allowance for existential-phenomenological forces
3. Determine how Jean Watson views the following patterns of knowledge: Empirical knowledge (the science), Esthetic knowledge (the art), Ethical knowing (what constitutes good actions for that patient), and Personal knowing (nurse-patient relationship).
Jean Watson sees all patterns of knowledge as integral to nursing care. She emphasizes the importance of not only understanding the science behind medical treatments (empirical knowledge) but also the importance of administering those treatments in a compassionate and caring manner (esthetic knowledge). Furthermore, she believes that ethical knowing is necessary to understand what constitutes good actions for a particular patient, and personal knowing is necessary for developing a strong nurse-patient relationship.
4. Explain which pattern(s) are more evident or easier to apply in Watson’s theory of human caring, citing specific examples to support your explanation.
Personal knowing is the most evident pattern in Watson’s theory of human caring, as it plays a prominent role in developing a strong nurse-patient relationship. This is evident in the carative factors that emphasize the importance of cultivating sensitivity to self and others and developing a helping-trust relationship with patients. Empirical knowledge also plays a significant role as Watson believes that understanding the science behind medical treatments is necessary to administer those treatments effectively. For example, a nurse who understands the purpose and function of a medication is better equipped to explain it to a patient and ensure that it is administered safely and appropriately.
5. Reflect on how you may (or do) use caring science in practice and cite a practice scenario in which you could or do apply the theory to patient care.
As a medical professor, I encourage my students to use caring science in their practice. One practice scenario in which caring science can be applied is in caring for a patient with a chronic illness, such as diabetes. In this scenario, it is important to develop a strong nurse-patient relationship (personal knowing) to establish trust and help the patient manage their illness effectively. This can be achieved by taking the time to listen to the patient’s concerns, explaining the purpose and function of their medications (empirical knowledge), and providing emotional support as needed (esthetic knowledge). Additionally, it is important to consider the patient’s unique needs and preferences when developing a care plan (ethical knowing) to ensure that the patient is able to manage their illness in a way that works for them.
References:
1. Watson, J. (1999). Postmodern nursing and beyond. Elsevier Health Sciences.
2. Watson, J. (2013). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring. University Press of Colorado.
