Introduction
Nursing education worldwide involves more than merely mastering the practical skills of the profession. It necessarily involves the study of fundamental theories that reveal the essence and uniqueness of the nursing profession. Jean Watson’s theory of human care occupies a worthy place among these theories; therefore, it is the central theory that operated to solve the case study.
This essay assesses Evelynn Brown, an 83-year-old retired school principal. It aims to discuss the value assumptions as a humanistic-altruistic value system, the value of faith-hope, and developing a helping-trusting relationship, evident in Evelynn’s case study. Furthermore, the aim is to explore the application of Watson’s caring science and the principles of transpersonal teaching, specifically Principle 7: promoting transpersonal teaching and learning. Applying the system of value assumptions and principles of transpersonal learning to the Evelyn case study will promote balance and harmony between health and illness.
The Value Assumptions Evident in this Study
Value assumptions are Jean Watson’s original definition of a whole system by which a nurse can connect with each patient meaningfully. Jean Watson cites ten factors as the basis for providing a format and focus for nursing interventions (Suri et al., 2020). Before turning to what values are implicit in this case study, the notion of values itself is worth discussing.
Values are objective in relation to the individual; they exist rather than being created by the mind, and they are recognized rather than composed. However, the hierarchy of values itself is deeply subjective since one assigns ranks to real things and phenomena based on individual perception, knowledge, motivations, and needs. Values are not attitudes; they create mindsets because they determine life choices (Tonin et al., 2019). The values guiding the nurses determine the contact quality and, consequently, the therapy. In this study, a humanistic-altruistic value system can be applied first and foremost.
The care plan indicates that Evelynn’s family is everything to her, stressing the significance of her relationships and interpersonal connections. This assumption acknowledges the social support system and the condition for meaningful relationships to ensure well-being. Humanism is understood as respect for the person, and consideration must be shown regardless of what that person is like (Tonin et al., 2019). This value is fostered through studying examples of humanity, the problem of the relationship between good and evil, and the golden rule of morality.
Furthermore, the value of faith-hope should be mentioned as the second assumption. Evelynn’s participation in chess competitions demonstrates her passion and perseverance, which can be a source of hope and motivation for her. Recognizing and developing her interests can help improve her well-being and encourage a positive viewpoint. What is required here is the ability to see and comprehend that one’s point of view is not the only one and, therefore, cannot claim to be accurate (Suri et al., 2020). The ability to see each patient as a person with their values, culture, and habits gives a choice and contributes to self-determination.
It is important to realize that Evelynn is multifaceted, and the right approach to motivation will help raise her stimulation for recovery. Sensitivity to self and others is an equally important value assumption. The nurse-patient partnership does not preclude the nurse’s active position.
However, along with subjective factors on the part of healthcare workers and patients, there are enormous objective difficulties in the therapeutic process caused by the conditions of life (Smith, 2019). It creates the need for sensitivity to the feelings and emotions of the healthcare provider and the patient. Evelynn’s aggressive outbursts and her regression to the role of the school principal point to the need for compassion and empathy. Acknowledging the person’s past personality and validating their feelings can help to manage frustration and improve the therapeutic relationship (Tonin et al., 2019). At the same time, it is important to remember the feelings and emotions of the medical staff, emphasizing the critical role of rest and assessment of one’s condition.
Last but not least, value assumption is developing a helping-trusting relationship. RN’s suggestion to reflect on Watson’s science of caring and transpersonal learning principles emphasizes the role of establishing a trustful relationship with Evelynn. This suggestion underscores the need for mutual faith and the relationship between nurse and patient to ensure effective care. Communication with the patient and colleagues based on an awareness of one’s professional duty and honesty in the performance of one’s work is conditioned by one’s general culture (Suri et al., 2020). The value of contact is connected with upbringing, education, perception of the other person as a free individual, and the ability to conduct a constructive dialogue to understand and work out a joint solution.
Help and trust are the most critical conditions for establishing a doctor-patient relationship. This attitude is that the doctor strives to be helpful to the patient. Usually, this is initially comprehended and requires no proof; however, there are times when patients need clarification on whether the nurse is advocating for them. This does not mean the nurse should take full responsibility for the patient’s health and mood (Smith, 2019).
In other parts of the health care system, the patient’s family and friends should help. However, the primary valuable resources are probably hidden by the patient himself. Their use will be possible if the patient understands that the nurse intends to help, not force. It is this understanding that can be achieved through the process of developing a helping-trusting relationship.
Principles of Transpersonal Care Applicable in the Case Study
In this case study, applying the principles of transpersonal care to improve Evelynn’s interaction with the nurse is necessary. Firstly, principle seven must be mentioned: promoting transpersonal teaching and learning. This guide emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unique needs and individuality of the patient (Meehan et al., 2018). To apply this principle, the nurse must frame her interaction with Evelynn based on her interests and experiences.
By discussing Evelynn’s love of competitive games, the nurse can connect with her and create a supportive environment for her to express herself. Respect involves recognizing the patient’s value and the importance of her concerns (Horton-Deutsch & Anderson, 2018). It is not merely agreeing to listen to the person – the foremost thing is to show that the patient’s words have made an impression.
It is necessary to recognize the significance of what is happening to the patient. In this case, it is vital to actively encourage and create an environment that supports the patient’s transpersonal growth and transformation (Fukada, 2018). The nurse should promote open dialogue, respect for patients’ perspectives, and emotional well-being.
Equally essential to mention is the caring-healing modality, which is particularly applicable in this case study. The fundamentals of this approach are empathy, sensitivity, and communication. These are the building blocks of an invaluable nurse-patient relationship (Hubert, 2018). They are the seeds of trust – from which the patient’s peace of mind and sense of healing grows. They help to care for the patient genuinely, and they give the nurse an understanding of professional competence and a sense of satisfaction at being able to help Evelynne and alleviate her suffering effectively (Horton-Deutsch & Anderson, 2018). This humanistic relationship is challenging to quantify and digitize, underscoring that no machine can ever fully replace a doctor.
By addressing Evelynn calmly and caringly, the nurse demonstrates the application of the caring healing modality. This modality includes creating a safe space for Evelynn to share her concerns and validate her emotions (Hubert, 2018). The nurse promotes Evelynn’s dignity and self-esteem by discussing her accomplishments in competitive games.
Understanding of well-being must be continually corrected, allowing the patient to be cared for in harmony with her wishes (Horton-Deutsch & Anderson, 2018). Caring for the patient’s well-being does not conflict with an ethic of autonomy, respecting the patient’s autonomy, although it may indirectly affect the patient’s medical decisions.
In such clinical situations, it is difficult to distinguish between manipulative actions that cross the boundaries of care and those that still fall within the concept of care. Humans today are often perceived in medicine as objects, which is also due to the active use of instruments and technology in general (Meehan et al., 2018).
It is only sometimes accurate since everyone has interests, goals, and freedom. In this sense, it is important to understand the other as an individual and a special person with an independent, valuable life. It is necessary to realize that Evelyn, despite her illness and difficulties, is, first and foremost, a person with her history, and this must be respected by emphasizing the role of interpersonal communication.
One of the most critical principles is ethical care, which is person-centered. Applying transpersonal care principles involves recognizing the consequences of Evelynn’s short-term memory loss and aggressive outbursts. In patient-centered care, the person’s specific and desired health needs and outcomes drive all healthcare decisions and quality measurements (Tonin et al., 2019). Patients are now partners in their healthcare journey, and nurses treat them clinically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and socially.
Patients want and need to participate in every step of their medical journey. This term has received tremendous attention in the last few years. Patient-centered care goes beyond the interaction between patients and physicians. It is a complete experience when the patient makes a follow-up appointment (Horton-Deutsch & Anderson, 2018). As consumers become patients, they demand more from health care through convenient, quick, patient-centered touch points and technology. Effective patient care includes two important things: the ability to gain insight into patient behaviors and requirements while maintaining patient confidentiality (Tonin et al., 2019).
Moreover, learning about their behaviors and needs in real time as they change is essential. The nurse should empathize with Evelynn, understanding that her outbursts may result from frustration and confusion (Hubert, 2018). By prioritizing Evelynn’s safety and well-being, the nurse can provide person-centered care that is sensitive to her unique needs and values.
Conclusion
By applying transpersonal care principles, the nurse can establish a therapeutic relationship with Evelynn, foster her dignity and self-esteem, and provide ethical, person-centered care. Collaboration and communication between healthcare providers and patients are essential to sharing information and experiences that contribute to treatment progress. However, time and resources need to be better optimized to use opportunities.
Therefore, it is equally crucial to implement a system of value assumptions. These are among the most important conditions for establishing the right doctor-patient relationship. In this way, it is possible to establish a rapport with Evelyn and build a relationship system that will contribute to the effective management of the therapeutic process.
References
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Horton-Deutsch, S., & Anderson, J. (2018). Caritas coaching: A journey toward transpersonal caring for informed moral action in healthcare. Sigma.
Hubert, P. M. (2018). Application of Jean Watson’s theory of transpersonal caring in nurses practicing in a pain center. Seton Hall University.
Meehan, T. C., Timmins, F., & Burke, J. (2018). Fundamental care guided by the careful nursing philosophy and professional practice model©. Journal of clinical nursing, 27(11-12), 2260-2273. Web.
Smith, M. C. (2019). Nursing theories and nursing practice. FA Davis.
Suri, G., Gross, J. J., & McClelland, J. L. (2020). Value-based decision making: An interactive activation perspective. Psychological Review, 127(2), 153. Web.
Tonin, L., Lacerda, M. R., Favero, L., Nascimento, J. D., Rocha, P. K., & MO, N. (2019). Transpersonal caring model in home-Care nursing for children with special care needs. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 9(1), 105-112. Web.
