Which nursing theorist believes that most patients are capable of performing self care?

GMCH Chandigarh - 2019

Nursing Foundation

Easy

Appeared in: GMCH Chandigarh - 2019

Explanation

Dorothea Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory (SCDNT) is centered on the idea that individuals have an innate ability and desire to care for themselves.
According to Orem, nursing is necessary only when a 'self-care deficit' exists—that is, when a person is unable to meet their own health and wellness needs.
The primary goal of nursing in Orem's model is to help patients regain their independence and ability to perform self-care.
Her theory outlines three nursing systems (Wholly Compensatory, Partly Compensatory, and Supportive-Educative) that guide the nurse in providing the appropriate level of assistance based on the patient's specific deficits.

Option B: Madeleine Leininger's primary focus is on the influence of culture on health and care practices, not on the concept of self-care as the central theme.
Option C: Martha Rogers' theory, the Science of Unitary Human Beings, is a highly abstract model focused on energy fields, openness, and pandimensionality. It does not directly address the practical concept of self-care activities.
Option D: Sister Callista Roy's Adaptation Model focuses on how individuals adapt to changes in their health status and environment. While adapting may involve self-care activities, the core concept of her theory is adaptation, not self-care itself.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Nursing Theories and Theorists helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Orem's theory is highly practical in clinical settings as it encourages nurses to assess a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and promotes patient independence and empowerment.
By focusing on what the patient can do, nurses can build on their strengths, fostering a sense of control and improving recovery outcomes.
This model is fundamental to rehabilitation nursing, chronic disease management, and patient education, where the goal is to help patients manage their own health.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concept in the question stem. The central phrase here is 'capable of performing self care'.
Next, scan the options, which are all major nursing theorists. Your task is to match the concept of 'self-care' to the correct theorist.
Recall the main focus of each theorist's model. If you're unsure, try to remember keywords associated with each one.
Dorothea Orem is directly linked to the 'Self-Care Deficit' theory. This is the strongest match.
Consider the other options to confirm your choice. Leininger is associated with 'culture,' Roy with 'adaptation,' and Rogers with 'energy fields.' None of these are as directly related to 'self-care' as Orem's theory.
Therefore, select Dorothea Orem as the theorist who believes most patients are capable of performing self-care.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 1055-1057

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 1 pp. 67-69, 70-72