INTRUCTIONS: APA STYLE AT LEAST THREE REFERENCES
How would you define “person-centered care” as a professional nurse?
What is an example of how you might engage in person-centered care?
Person-Centered Care in Nursing Practice: Definition and Application
Person-centered care (PCC) is an approach to healthcare that emphasizes the individual’s unique needs, values, preferences, and life circumstances, aiming to empower them in the decision-making process. As a professional nurse, defining person-centered care involves recognizing that the patient is not simply a condition or diagnosis but a whole person with physical, emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. This holistic approach fosters a therapeutic partnership between the healthcare provider and the patient, where the nurse’s role is not merely to deliver care but to support the patient’s active involvement in their healthcare journey.
Defining Person-Centered Care as a Professional Nurse
From a nursing perspective, person-centered care focuses on respecting the patient’s autonomy, dignity, and participation in their care process. According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), PCC requires healthcare providers to treat patients as partners, honoring their individual preferences, needs, and values, and ensuring that these guide all clinical decisions (American Nurses Association, 2015). A nurse practicing person-centered care must engage in active listening, show empathy, and promote a caring and respectful relationship with the patient. This approach aligns with the principles of holistic care, where attention is given not only to physical symptoms but also to mental, emotional, and social well-being (McCormack & McCance, 2017).
In PCC, nurses acknowledge the importance of individualized care plans that cater to the specific needs of the patient rather than applying one-size-fits-all solutions. This may involve taking into consideration cultural backgrounds, personal experiences, and the patient’s personal goals for their health. By doing so, the nurse ensures that the patient feels valued and understood, which enhances patient satisfaction and health outcomes (Santana et al., 2018).
Example of Engaging in Person-Centered Care
One practical example of how I might engage in person-centered care as a professional nurse is in the management of a patient with chronic pain. Chronic pain patients often experience physical discomfort, emotional distress, and sometimes frustration due to long-term suffering. In a person-centered approach, I would first prioritize understanding the patient’s pain experience by actively listening to their description of symptoms, assessing the impact of pain on their daily life, and recognizing their emotional and psychological struggles.
Next, I would collaborate with the patient in developing a personalized care plan that reflects their preferences. This might involve discussing pain management strategies such as medication, physical therapy, or alternative treatments like acupuncture, ensuring that the patient’s input is central to the decision-making process. I would also provide education about their condition, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. This collaborative effort ensures the patient feels more in control of their treatment, reducing anxiety and enhancing trust in the healthcare system.
Additionally, I would incorporate regular feedback from the patient to adjust the care plan as needed, reflecting the dynamic nature of person-centered care. By focusing on what matters most to the patient, I ensure that the care provided is both meaningful and effective, leading to improved patient satisfaction and better clinical outcomes (Santana et al., 2018).
Conclusion
Person-centered care is fundamental to nursing practice as it upholds the dignity, autonomy, and individuality of patients. Defining PCC as a professional nurse involves prioritizing the patient’s unique needs, values, and preferences, ensuring they play an active role in their care. By actively listening, collaborating with patients, and providing tailored interventions, nurses can foster a therapeutic partnership that leads to improved health outcomes and a more positive healthcare experience. The application of person-centered care, as exemplified in chronic pain management, underscores the importance of holistic, individualized care that respects and empowers the patient.
References
American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements. American Nurses Association.
McCormack, B., & McCance, T. (2017). Person-centred practice in nursing and health care: Theory and practice (2nd ed.). Wiley-Blackwell.
Santana, M. J., Manalili, K., Jolley, R. J., Zelinsky, S., Quan, H., & Lu, M. (2018). How to practice person-centered care: A conceptual framework. Health Expectations, 21(2), 429–440. Define “Person-Centered Care” appeared first on Nursing Depo.
