WATSONS THEORY

SUSHEEWA W., MSN,

BCNNV

Ph.D.

Jean Watsons Theory

Jean Watsons Theory of Transpersonal Caring also called Theory of Human Caring or The Caring Model was developed in 1979. It emphasizes the humanistic aspects of nursing in combination with scientific knowledge

Human Caring Theory

The core principles of Human Caring Theory (Watson, 2008, p. 34) are:
Practice

of loving-kindness and equanimity Authentic presence: enabling deep belief of other Cultivation of ones own spiritual practice beyond ego Being the caring-healing environment Allowing for miracles
Watson, J. (2008)

Caring

Caring begins with being present, open to compassion, mercy, gentleness, loving-kindness, and equanimity toward and with self before one can offer compassionate care to others
(Watson, 2008, p. xviii).

Jean Watsons Theory: Caring

Major Elements of caring model: - Carative Factors - Transpersonal caring relationship - Caring occasion/Caring moment

Carative Factors

Comprised of 10 elements: 1. Humanistic-altruistic system of value 2. Faith-Hope 3. Sensitivity to self and others 4. Helping-trusting, human care relationship 5. Expressing positive and negative feelings

10 elements (Con)
6. Creative problem-solving caring process 7. Transpersonal teaching-learning 8. Supportive, protective, and/or corrective mental, physical, societal and spiritual environment 9. Human needs assistant 10. Existential-phenomenological-spiritual forces
(Watson, 1988b, p. 75)

Transpersonal Caring Relationship

This is a special kind of human care that depends on:

- The nurses moral commitment in protecting and enhancing human dignity as well as the deeper self - The nurses caring consciousness communicated to preserve and honor the embodied spirit, therefore not reducing the person to a moral status of an object - The nurses connection and having the potential to heal since experience, perception, and intentional connection are taking place

Transpersonal Caring Relationship

Describes how the nurse goes beyond the objective assessment to show concerning toward the persons subjective/deeper meaning of their healthcare situation. Involves mutuality between the two individuals involved

Caring Occasion/Caring Moment

The moment (focal point in space and time) when the nurse and another person come together in such a way that an occasion for human caring is created
(Watson, 1988b, 1999).

Caring Occasion/Caring Moment (Con)

Both the nurse and one who are being cared can be influenced by the caring moment

For example, The nurse enters the patients room, a feeling of expectation is created.

According to Watson, the nurses role is to:

Establish a caring relationship with patients Treat patients as holistic beings (body, mind and spirit) Display unconditional acceptance Treat patients with a positive regard Promote health through knowledge and intervention Spend uninterrupted time with patients: caring moments

Application of Watsons theory

Nursing is based on the concept of care. Many nurses around the world have adopted Jean Watsons Caring Theory in their practice and research.

Professional Practice Model

Quality Caring Model developed by Joanne Duffy, RN, PhD.

Sample of Carative factors used

Carative factors used with postpartum women experiencing multiple emotions

never

pass judgments, provide all patients with the same respect and level of care. instill hope in the mothers that they will be able to care for their babies and return to their normal state of health. discuss the patients perceptions and feelings towards their birthing/parenting experiences.

Sample of Carative factors used

discuss the patients perceptions and feelings towards their birthing/parenting experiences. provide a trusting relationship where the patient feels that you are committed to helping them. Advocate for the patient. enable the patient to discuss positive and negative feelings concerning her current healthcare/home situation.

Sample of Carative factors used

use creativity during teaching opportunities and holistic treatments involving pain management. (6 & 7) ensure that their environment is comfortable and enables them to get rest. Ensure that the patients home environment is safe for mother and baby upon return.

Sample of Carative factors used

help patients reach harmony (mind, body, spirit) through holistic and caring modalities. Promote mother-infant bonding. Assess patients support system. (9&10)

Sample of Carative factors used

Carative factors used with patients suffering Major Thalassemia

never

pass judgments, provide all patients with the same respect and level of care. instill hope in the patients with Thalassemia that they will get through this tough time, and they will get through this situation and return to their baseline health.

Sample of Carative factors used

discuss the patients feelings and perceptions about their quality of life and symptom management. provide a trusting relationship where the patient feels that you are committed to helping them. Advocate for the patients as needed. enable the patient to discuss positive and negative feelings concerning his/her current healthcare situation and come to a mutual agreement. Multidisciplinary rounding.

Sample of Carative factors used

use creativity during teaching opportunities and holistic treatments involving symptom management. Involve family in teaching as much as possible. (6&7) ensure that their environment is comfortable and enables them to get rest.

Sample of Carative factors used

help patients reach harmony (mind, body, spirit) through holistic and caring modalities. Initiate or continue palliative care and assess patients support system. (9&10)

Bibliography

Parker, M. (2001). Nursing theories and nursing practice. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis. Watson, J. (2008). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring (Rev. ed.). Boulder, CO: University Press of Colorado.