Who proposed the theory of caring?

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

Jean Watson developed the 'Philosophy and Science of Caring,' which is a grand theory in nursing.
Her theory is centered on the concept of transpersonal caring, which involves a deep, respectful, and healing connection between the nurse and the patient.
It emphasizes that care should be prioritized over cure, focusing on the holistic well-being of the person.
Watson's framework includes 10 'carative factors' (now 'caritas processes') that guide nurses in practicing compassionate and effective care.

Option B: Callista Roy did not propose the theory of caring. Her contribution is the Adaptation Model of Nursing.
Option C: Dorothy Johnson is known for the Behavioral System Model, not the theory of caring.
Option D: Lydia Hall developed the 'Care, Core, and Cure' model, which is distinct from Watson's theory of caring.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Nursing Theorists and Models as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding nursing theories like Watson's helps nurses move beyond task-oriented care to provide holistic, patient-centered care that addresses emotional, spiritual, and physical needs.
Applying the principles of caring theories can improve patient satisfaction, build trust in the nurse-patient relationship, and enhance healing outcomes.
What if? - If a nurse strictly follows a biomedical model without incorporating a caring theory, they might successfully treat a disease but fail to address the patient's anxiety, fear, or lack of understanding, leading to a negative patient experience and potential non-adherence to follow-up care.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the question as a factual recall question asking to match a specific nursing theory ('theory of caring') with its proponent.
Scan the options, which are all well-known nursing theorists.
Recall or deduce the primary contribution of each theorist.
Associate Jean Watson directly with the 'Theory of Human Caring' or 'Transpersonal Caring.'
Eliminate the other options by recalling their distinct theories: Roy (Adaptation), Johnson (Behavioral System), and Hall (Care, Core, Cure).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 1 pp. 107-109, 67-69

Practise the full DSSSB October 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.