Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring
Lily Hospice™ believes in and employs the Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring because we feel it aligns with our values and principles of hospice care. This nursing theory is based on the following:
- Person-Centered Care: Jean Watson’s theory emphasizes the importance of individualized care that focuses on the unique needs, preferences, and values of each patient. Hospice care is often centered around providing compassionate care to patients with terminal illnesses, and Jean Watson’s theory aligns with this philosophy by prioritizing the holistic well-being of the patient, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. By incorporating Watson’s theory into their practice, hospice businesses can ensure that their care is patient-centered and respects the dignity and autonomy of the dying person.
- Relationship-Centered Care: Watson’s theory emphasizes the importance of establishing a caring and trusting relationship between the caregiver and the patient. In hospice care, building a meaningful and supportive relationship with the patient and their family is crucial as patients approach the end of their life. By using Watson’s theory, hospice businesses can foster therapeutic relationships that are built on trust, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe and supportive environment for patients and their families during the end-of-life journey.
- Holistic Approach: Watson’s theory emphasizes the holistic approach to care, considering the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of a person. Hospice care often involves addressing not just the physical symptoms of a terminal illness, but also the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. Watson’s theory promotes a holistic approach to care, which aligns with the comprehensive care that Lily Hospice aims to provide.
- Focus on Caring and Compassion: Watson’s theory places a strong emphasis on caring and compassion as fundamental elements of nursing practice. Hospice care is known for its compassionate approach to caring for patients with terminal illnesses, and Watson’s theory provides a framework that emphasizes the importance of caring and compassionate interactions between caregivers and patients. By incorporating Watson’s theory into our practice, Lily Hospice™ can reinforce and promote a culture of caring and compassion among their staff, leading to improved patient outcomes and experiences.
- Ethical Framework: Watson’s theory also includes an ethical component that emphasizes the ethical responsibilities of caregivers towards their patients. In hospice care, ethical considerations such as respect for autonomy, informed consent, and end-of-life decision making are critical. By using Watson’s theory, Lily Hospice™ can provide a foundation for ethical decision making and guide their staff in navigating complex ethical issues that may arise in the care of patients at the end of life.
Incorporating Watson’s theory helps Lily Hospice™ provide high-quality, compassionate care to patients with terminal illnesses and supports their families during this challenging time.