PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY
Personal Philosophy of Nursing
Jacqueline W. Clubine
Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
NRSG 372 – Professional Nursing: Concepts, Issues & Trends – ABSN
This paper represents my own work in accordance with the School and University regulations.
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PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY 2
The Social Context of Nursing Practice
The Affordable Care Act has created a demand for nurses to support the influx of new patients into the healthcare system. The system must also provide continuing care for the growing population of elderly. Social values also affect healthcare: The influence of
“contemporary society—as a result of apathy, depersonalization, disconnectedness, and growing globalization- is counter” to providing patient-centered care (Conard, 2014, p.88).
Social Concerns for Nurses
Many of the major health problems in America disproportionately affect disadvantaged communities, a population that is also lacks adequate healthcare. These problems are compounded by the “increasing costs of healthcare; the ongoing health disparities; and the continuing lack of safe, accessible, and available healthcare resources and services” (White 2012, p.2).
Social Responsibility of Nurses
The profession of nursing is a function of social responsibility. As healthcare providers, nurses deliver services without the expectation of receiving any direct benefit.
I believe in supporting the welfare of all people and as such, felt compelled to join a profession that provides the opportunity to positively impact the lives of many different patients, families, and communities.
The Role of Nurses
As a nurse, I will focus on patient-centered care. I will seek to develop a personal relationship with patients to best serve his or her needs. I will educate my patients to help them make informed healthcare decisions and facilitate autonomy (Spring, 2010, p.5).
PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY 3
With a background in Anthropology, Psychology, and Women’s Studies, I possess the understanding necessary to provide compassionate, empathetic, and culturally conscious patient care.
Scholarship in Nursing Practice
As a nurse, I will make informed decisions based on evidence-based practice that are justifiable and sound to avoid patient risks. I will stay current with developments in nursing scholarship and apply such knowledge to my practice. I will integrate my knowledge of nursing practice into my work environment to improve patient outcomes.
Displaying Leadership in Nursing Practice
I am committed to assuring patient safety and protecting the patient from unprofessional care (Spring, 2010, p. 35). I will hold professional colleagues accountable and intervene on behalf of patient wellness when necessary. I will collaborate with professional colleges to utilize a valuable pool of perspectives and experiences to insure positive patient outcomes. As I advance in my practice, I will share my knowledge with less experienced colleagues and act as an open and available resource.
Ethical Considerations for Nurses
The unique vantage point of the nurse, will give me the ability to closely assess the patient’s needs and therefore, be a vigilant patient advocate. At all times, I will act ethically by respecting patient’s autonomy, and upholding the principles of “do not harm” and “do good” (Spring, 2010, p.16). With a commitment to providing unbiased care, a concept of cultural relativism, which is embedded in Anthropology, I will undergo rigorous self-evaluation to check for personal biases that might affect my judgment or negatively interfere with patient care.
PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY
References
Conard P. L., & Pape, T. (.(2014). Roles and Responsibilities of the Nursing Scholar.
Pediatirc Nursing, 40(2), 87-90
Spring, S. (2010). Guide to the code of ethics for nurses: Interpretation and application.
American Nurses Association.
White, K. (2012). The essential guide to nursing practice: Applying ANA's scope and standards in practice and education. Silver Spring, MD: American Nurses
Association.
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