PHILOSOPHY OF NURSING

The term "philosophy" originated from the Greek words "philos," meaning love, and "sophia," meaning wisdom. However, the contemporary usage of this word has a broader meaning, encompassing the study of fundamental questions about the world, existence, and human nature. In practice, philosophers attempt to answer questions such as what the world is composed of, who created it, why it exists, what our identity is, why we exist, where we come from, where we are going, and what the purpose of our actions is.

Philosophers seek to answer fundamental questions, such as the composition, origin, and purpose of the world, and contemplate existential queries, such as the nature, origin, and destination of human beings. Additionally, they reflect on the significance of human actions and the purpose of life.

A nursing philosophy is a statement that reflects a nurse's personal and professional values, beliefs, and ethics concerning the nursing profession. It provides a framework for understanding the nurse's approach to patient care and outlines their career goals as a nursing professional.

A nursing philosophy is a framework that guides a nurse's practice and decision-making as they navigate their roles and responsibilities within the healthcare system, helping them to provide the best possible care to their patients while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, and considering the impact of the nursing profession on society.

Overall, a nursing philosophy serves as a foundation for a nurse's professional identity, helping them to remain grounded in their values and committed to providing high-quality patient care.

Nursing philosophy as “the intellectual and effective outcomes of the professional nurse’s efforts to understand the ultimate relationships between humans, their environment and health; Approach nursing as a scientific discipline; Integrate a sense of value; and Articulate a personal belief system about human beings, environment, health and nursing as a process”.

The four principal domains of nursing philosophy are person, environment, health, and nursing. These domains serve as the foundation for all philosophies of nursing and guide nurses in their practice.

1.      Person:

• The patient or individual receiving care is at the center of nursing philosophy.
• Nurses consider the patient's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs when providing care.
• Nurses aim to provide patient-centered care that is respectful, compassionate, and culturally sensitive.
• Nurses strive to establish a therapeutic relationship with the patient and their family to facilitate effective communication and promote trust.

2.      Environment:

• The surroundings in which the patient lives and receives care are an essential part of nursing philosophy.
• Nurses consider how the environment can affect the patient's health and well-being, including factors such as safety, cleanliness, noise, and accessibility.
• Nurses strive to create a safe and supportive environment for the patient that promotes healing and recovery.

3.      Health:

• The patient's overall well-being, including physical, mental, and social health, is a key aspect of nursing philosophy.
• Nurses work to promote and maintain the patient's health and prevent illness and injury through health promotion and disease prevention activities.
• Nurses also manage any health problems the patient may have, providing care that is evidence-based and tailored to the patient's unique needs.

4.      Nursing:

• The actions and responsibilities of the nurse in providing care to the patient are central to nursing philosophy.
• Nurses use their knowledge, skills, and expertise to promote the patient's health and well-being.
• Nurses provide education and support to the patient and their family to help them make informed decisions about their care.
• Nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care that meets the patient's needs.

CONCLUSION

The philosophy of nursing is a vital aspect of the nursing profession that guides a nurse's practice and decision-making. It reflects their personal and professional values, beliefs, and ethics concerning patient care and outlines their career goals as a nursing professional. The four principal domains of nursing philosophy - person, environment, health, and nursing - serve as the foundation for all philosophies of nursing and guide nurses in their practice. By upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethics and considering the impact of the nursing profession on society, nurses can provide the best possible care to their patients while remaining grounded in their values and committed to their professional identity.