A Christian Worldview for Nursing, Essay Example

In examining the nursing domain, how I view the nursing field, I always take into account approaching using a Christian worldview. In defining the discipline of nursing, we look at the definition of discipline given by, Meleis, “ a branch of knowledge or teaching and as the training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior…a discipline has a regulatory “set of rule or methods” that govern practice.” (Melesis, 2011, pg. 87) Based on the discipline of nursing, one must understand the four basic concepts of the traditional metaparadigm of nursing. These includes; person, environment, health, and nursing. In looking at this metaparadigm taking a Christian worldview, the first component begins with God, as Shelley and Miller, believe that the entire nursing field involves God, as it begins and ends with God. This is an important contribution to the traditional paradigm, which is important in facilitating that at its core is the element of caring, in which the discipline is able to contribute significantly, and derives its uniqueness to the healthcare field.

It is important to look at the domains of nursing using both a philosophical and theoretical perspective. The nursing domain is formed around the knowledge base model in which represent universal knowledge, specifically in the discipline of nursing. It is important to examine the nursing domains of nursing client; environment; health; nursing therapeutics; nursing process; transitions; interactions using a Christian worldview, that incorporates a humanistic view in which caring for the patient is the core element of the nursing discipline. The conceptualization of care is essential in is the creation of holistic health interventions that involve empowerment, advocacy, morality, competence, establishing relationships, and most of all care. In looking at these domains in a Christian worldview is to act as a model of servant leadership, and rather to seek glory, “we have a responsibility to respect and support assistive personnel.” (Shelly, Miller, 2009, pg. 290).

References

Melesis, Afaf Ibrahim. (2011). Theoretical Nursing: Development and Progress. LWW. Fifth Edition.

Shelley, Judith Allen, Miller, Arlene. (2009). Called to Care: A Christian Worldview for Nursing. InterVarsity Press.