NURS-FPX4015 Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Physical Assessment: A Holistic Approach to Patient-Centered Care Enhancing Holistic Nursing Care with the 3Ps

Holistic nursing care focuses on the whole person, incorporating physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and environmental factors (AHNA, 2021). The American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) states that this approach integrates conventional medical practices with complementary therapies such as mindfulness, therapeutic communication, and stress management. By addressing all aspects of a patient’s well-being, holistic care leads to improved health outcomes, better adherence to treatment plans, and increased patient satisfaction.

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For nurses, holistic care fosters stronger relationships with patients, enhances job satisfaction, and reduces burnout (Lukovsky et al., 2020). Meaningful interactions, improved clinical decision-making, and better patient advocacy result from adopting a holistic approach. Additionally, integrating the 3Ps strengthens the ability of nurses to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.

The Role of the 3Ps in Holistic Nursing Care

Application of the 3Ps in Clinical Practice

Integrating pathophysiology, pharmacology, and physical assessment is crucial for managing complex conditions. For example, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), understanding chronic inflammation and airway narrowing helps nurses monitor respiratory status. Pharmacological interventions, such as administering bronchodilators and corticosteroids, improve lung function (MacLeod et al., 2021). Physical assessment findings, including wheezing and oxygen levels, guide appropriate interventions.

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Similarly, in sepsis management, pathophysiology knowledge helps nurses recognize systemic inflammation and potential organ dysfunction. Continuous physical assessment, including monitoring vital signs and urine output, ensures early detection of deterioration. Pharmacological management, including administering antibiotics and vasopressors, plays a vital role in stabilizing the patient (Thom et al., 2021).

Conclusion

Incorporating the 3Ps into holistic nursing care enhances patient safety and improves health outcomes. Understanding disease mechanisms, selecting appropriate medications, and conducting thorough assessments ensure that care extends beyond symptom management to address physical, emotional, and social well-being. A holistic approach, supported by evidence-based knowledge, empowers nurses to deliver high-quality, compassionate care.

References

AHNA. (2021). What we do. American Holistic Nurses Association.org. https://www.ahna.org/About-Us/What-is-Holistic-Nursing
Lukovsky, J., McGrath, E., Sun, C., Frankl, D., & Beauchesne, M. A. (2020). A survey of hospice and palliative care nurses’ and holistic nurses’ perceptions of spirituality and spiritual care. Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing, 23(1), 28–37. https://doi.org/10.1097/njh.0000000000000711
MacLeod, M., Papi, A., Contoli, M., Beghé, B., Celli, B. R., Wedzicha, J. A., & Fabbri, L. M. (2021). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation fundamentals: Diagnosis, treatment, prevention and disease impact. Respirology, 26(6), 532–551. https://doi.org/10.1111/resp.14041