Nursing philosophy, in general, can be defined as a conceptual model or framework providing a frame of reference for nurses to guide their thinking, observations, interpretations, and practices (Seedhouse, 2000). My personal philosophy of nursing is Betty Neuman's Health Care Systems approach (see: Neuman & Fawcett, 2001), which views both the client and the practice of nursing as systemic in nature. As to the concepts of the nursing metaparadigm, Neuman and Fawcett (2001) define the client holistically, tie health and well-being to the holistic nature of the human being, interpolate the environment as comprised of extrinsic and intrinsic variables, and characterize
the profession of nursing as the facilitation of total wellness or well-being. The purpose of this paper is to discuss my personal philosophy of nursing and the personal and professional factors that have contributed to the development of my general views.
Factors Influencing My Personal Philosophy
In my experience with nursing, I have found that the practice requires not only extensive knowledge but also great flexibility and strong attention to client needs and desires which means, of course, that better understanding the client can lead to meeting his or her needs in a more comprehensive way. In my search for guidance for a way to more fully understand the client, I read many and diverse nursing theories, finding that each offered insight and assistance. However, the model, which seemed most applicable to actual practice and the circumstances and challenges I was confronted with in the field was Neuman's model. It's concepts and vocabulary are basic which facilitate basic understanding and application. It has an open structure which I felt allowed for the incorporation of any additional concepts and notions that attracted me from other theories. I also liked its focus on stressors and preventative interventions.
Personal Thoughts, Feelings and Beliefs About...