Discussion Prompt Take one component in the Metaparadigm of Nursing, identify and discuss the concept or concepts of Watson’s Theory of Caring that support Watson’s writing of a theory of nursing based on the criteria established in the Metaparadigm of Nursing.

The Metaparadigm of Nursing and Watson’s Theory of Caring

The metaparadigm of Nursing refers to the four primary concepts central to the nursing discipline: person, health, environment, and nursing. Each component shapes nursing philosophy and guides nursing practice (Alligood, 2018). One of the critical components of the metaparadigm of Nursing is the concept of person, which refers to one who receives nursing care or, rather, the recipient of nursing care, who might be an individual, family, or community. Further, Jean Watson’s Theory of Caring is a nursing theory that emphasizes the significance of the patient-nurse relationship and the holistic approach to patient care. The theory is based on caring as a fundamental and universal human need and proposes that caring is a vital component of nursing practice (Gunawan et al., 2022). Several of Watson’s concepts of caring support the Metaparadigm idea of a person.

Watson’s theory of caring, which states that individuals are unique and complex beings with physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, is one of the main concepts supporting the Metaparadigm idea of a person. Watson emphasizes the significance of treating patients individually and considering their unique needs, values, and beliefs (Gunawan et al., 2022). This concept aligns with the Metaparadigm’s view of a person as a unique being with distinct characteristics and needs. Another concept of Watson’s theory that supports the concept of a person is the idea of creating a caring environment. Watson emphasizes creating a healing environment that promotes physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This aligns with the Metaparadigm’s view of a person as being impacted by their environment and the need for nursing to consider patients’ environment (Alligood, 2018).

Finally, Watson’s theory of caring emphasizes the importance of the nurse-patient relationship when providing quality care. Watson proposes that the nurse-patient relationship should be based on mutual trust, respect, and understanding (Gunawan et al., 2022). This aligns with the Metaparadigm’s view of a person as an active participant in their care and the importance of building a relationship between the patient and nurse.

References

Alligood, M. (2018). Nursing Theorists and Their Work (9thed.). Elsevier.

Gunawan, J., Aungsuroch, Y., Watson, J., & Marzilli, C. (2022). Nursing administration: Watson’s theory of human caring. Nursing Science Quarterly, 35(2), 235-243. https://doi.org/10.1177/08943184211070582.