Philosophies and Theories for Advanced Nursing Practice

Advanced nursing practice is underpinned by a variety of philosophies and theories that guide nurses in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Here’s an overview of some key philosophies and theories that are integral to advanced nursing practice:

Philosophies in Advanced Nursing Practice

1. Humanistic Nursing Philosophy

   • Focuses on the whole person and emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient’s experience, context, and individuality. This philosophy encourages empathy, respect, and a holistic approach to patient care.

2. Existential Philosophy

   • Centers on the concepts of existence, meaning, and the human condition. In nursing, this philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding patients’ experiences and helping them find meaning in their health and illness experiences.

3. Caring Philosophy

   • Based on the works of Jean Watson and others, this philosophy emphasizes the centrality of caring in nursing. It involves creating a healing environment, respecting human dignity, and fostering a deep nurse-patient relationship.

4. Feminist Philosophy

   • Highlights the importance of gender and power dynamics in health care. It advocates for equality, empowerment, and social justice, addressing issues such as disparities in health care access and outcomes.