Rationale for Theory Selection and Basic Premises
Introduction to the Selected Theory
Quality nursing care is crucial in the provision of excellent healthcare services. Several theories have been developed to help nurses provide their patients with quality care.In this instance, the Self-care Deficit Theory (SCDT) will be the main focus because of how it supports the current practice of laying the groundwork for quality care.
The SCDT is a nursing theory that emphasizes the importance of self-care in achieving optimal health outcomes (Gligor & Domnariu, 2020). The idea behind the theory is that people are naturally motivated to care for themselves and are in charge of their health. The theory applies to nursing practice as it offers a paradigm for comprehending patient behavior and directs nursing interventions that encourage self-care behaviors.
The SCDT has three fundamental premises where the first premise is that people naturally want to take care of themselves. The second premise is the need for self-care among people to keep their best health. The third premise is that individuals require aid when their capacity for self-care is constrained. The theory contends that people must fulfill several universal self-care requirements to keep their best health. Air, water, food, rest, and a secure setting are among the universal requirements for self-care.
Empirical Evidence in Practice and Research
The SCDT has been applied in various practice settings to promote self-care practices among patients. One study examined how a self-care intervention affected the patient’s quality of life while dealing with heart failure. According to the research, self-care intervention was linked to a better quality of life and fewer hospital readmissions (Yip, 2021). It also emphasizes how crucial self-care is for controlling chronic conditions and enhancing health results.
Another research examined how a self-care intervention affected diabetic patients’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Based on the research, patients with diabetes who received the self-care intervention had better knowledge, attitudes, and self-care behaviors. The study emphasizes how crucial self-care education is for patients with chronic illnesses.
The Self-care Deficit Theory is an effective nursing theory that offers a paradigm for patient understanding. The theory is supported by empirical data that highlights the importance of self-care in supporting optimal health outcomes (Gligor & Domnariu, 2020). Nurses can implement the theory in their clinical work to encourage self-care practices among patients with chronic conditions and enhance health outcomes.
Reflection of Practice and Adaptation of Theory
Alignment with Evidence-Based Practice Goals
The SCDT lays the foundation for high-quality treatment by emphasizing the significance of self-care in achieving the best potential health outcomes. In my practice, I adapt the SCDT to best align with my goals for evidence-based practice. I encourage self-care behaviors among my patients using evidence-based treatments, which also aid in their achieving their ideal levels of health.
For instance, I use motivational interviewing techniques to assist my patients in identifying their self-care goals and creating strategies to accomplish them. Technology supports my patients’ self-care routines since I use mobile applications to keep tabs on my patients’ self-care routines and health statuses.
Integration of Metaparadigm Concepts
Person
The SCDT places the individual at the center of care, recognizing their capacity and obligation to care for themselves. As a nurse, I encourage patients to exercise self-care by educating them on its significance and offering them tools and encouragement. Through this approach, patients are given the tools they need to actively participate in their health and well-being, which can enhance their outcomes and their standard of life.
Environment
The SCDT acknowledges that the environment has a major impact on delivering nursing care. According to this idea, the surroundings must be secure and supportive of self-care activities (Yip, 2021). As a nurse, I try to foster an atmosphere that encourages my patients to exercise self-care. I make sure that it is safe, cozy, and devoid of anything that could make it difficult for people to exercise self-care. I also advise my patients to establish an inviting environment that supports their self-care routines.
Health
The SCDT recognizes the importance of self-care practices in achieving and sustaining optimal health and defines health as a condition of optimal functioning. For instance, I impart knowledge on stress reduction strategies, physical exercise, and healthy eating practices to support the best possible health outcomes.
Nursing
The SCDT places emphasis on the role that nursing plays in encouraging patients to exercise self-care. As a nurse, I create care plans that encourage self-care behaviors using the SCDT as a framework. I evaluate the patient’s capacity for self-care, educate them about self-care techniques, and step in when their capacity is compromised. I help patients with daily tasks and show them how to take care of their medications to encourage using self-care techniques.
Overall, Self-care Deficit Theory is a relevant nursing theory that offers a structure for encouraging patients to exercise self-care. The theory supports my current nursing practice by prioritizing the significance of involving patients in their care and encouraging self-care behaviors to attain the best possible health outcomes. I give patients the most current, efficient treatment by modifying the theory to conform to evidence-based practice. As a nurse, I believe encouraging self-care behaviors among patients is crucial to attaining the best possible health outcomes and elevating patients’ quality of life.
References
Gligor, L., & Domnariu, C. D. (2020). Patient care approach using nursing theories – comparative analysis of Orem’s self-care deficit theory and Henderson’s model. Acta Medica Transilvanica, 25(2), 11–14. Web.
Yip, J. Y. (2021). Theory-based Advanced Nursing Practice: A practice update on the application of Orem’s self-care deficit nursing theory. SAGE Open Nursing, 7. Web.