Orem’s Theory of Nursing, Essay Example

Introduction

Orem’s Theory of Self-Care supports the advancement of individual behaviors in order to support self-care and greater wellbeing for all persons (11A Spring 2014 Syllabus). From this perspective, it is necessary for individuals to perform-self-care strategies to the best of their ability and to recognize the importance of personal motivation in achieving self-care strategies (11A Spring 2014 Syllabus). The ADN program at Long Beach City College recognizes the importance of self-care and its impact on clients; therefore, nurses should encourage them to be self-reliant and to recognize the importance of seeking support and assistance as required to achieve greater self-awareness to perform self-care activities (11A Spring 2014 Syllabus). These factors are key contributors in the ability of individuals to perform self-care activities to the best of their ability (11A Spring 2014 Syllabus).

Analysis

Orem’s Theory of Self-Care is an essential component of nursing education because it supports the ability of individuals to care for themselves and to recognize when nursing care is required when self-care is not a viable option (Student Handbook). Most importantly, nurses must provide a strong level of support for clients as they pursue their independence in support of self-care and independence, during periods of good health and periods of recovery (Student Handbook). As a professional nurse, it is necessary to consider the challenges that are evident with self-care and how nurses might provide knowledge and resources to clients so that they are able to perform self-care activities more effectively (Student Handbook). These factors are instrumental in engaging clients in the actions associated with self-care and their ability to effectively respond to these requirements on a continuous basis (Student Handbook). From a nursing perspective, self-care is a critical factor in client health and wellbeing; therefore, it must be encouraged by nurses so that patients optimize their wellbeing as best as possible (Student Handbook). Nurses must recognize when clients are able to perform self-care activities and when they require assistance, as this knowledge will enable clients to obtain any support that they require (Student Handbook) Nurses must be available to provide care as necessary and to encourage clients who demonstrate the potential to perform self-care activities on an independent basis (Student Handbook). These factors have a positive impact on patient outcomes and enable nurses to demonstrate their level of knowledge and understanding of patient needs as they arise (Student Handbook). These opportunities enable nurses to be successful in providing expert knowledge, guidance, and encouragement to clients on a regular basis (Student Handbook).

Conclusion

Orem’s Theory of Self-Care provides a unique opportunity to convey the importance of self-care alternatives to clients to facilitate greater health and wellbeing. Nurses are responsible for providing knowledge to clients in many areas so that they are able to administer self-care activities as best as possible. Professional nurses must evaluate the health status of their clients so that they are able to recognize when self-care activities are appropriate. This is an important learning tool for nurses, as self-care is essential in patient recovery and client wellbeing for clients across many age and population groups. The ability to recognize self-care as an opportunity for clients to optimize their personal health and to work towards improving their health and to regain their independence. Nurses play a significant role in this process and support the continued growth and development of clients so that they become self-reliant and possess the ability to care for themselves on a regular and continuous basis to improve health-related outcomes.

References

11A Spring 2014 Syllabus, pp. 1-64.

Student Handbook: Associate Degree Nursing 2013-2014.