What is your Nursing Philosophy????

chris_at_lucas_RN, RN · Dec 23, 2005

My philosphy is to improve the quality of life of my patients by being professionally responsible, warm and caring; by bringing my integrity with me to work; and by being as positive a member of my team and my facility as I am able.

What would I like to see different? Fewer people who don't care--regardless of their reason. It seems as though there are a lot of nurses in it for the money, or because it is a job. For all the complaining about pay, it's really pretty good for someone with a new associate's degree to make $19 an hour, which is the going rate around here.

It's been a long time, it seems, since it was PC to be a nurse because of a calling or because we wanted to help people. But frankly, when you are tired, and your feet hurt, and you aren't being appreciated, it's hard to muster high quality care unless you have a good reason.

I guess I'd like to see more of that...... (please don't shoot at me.)

Tweety, BSN, RN · Dec 23, 2005

Here are some highlights from my paper......it's a bit wordy, but these are the highlights.

In my view, nursing is a holistic approach to caring for patients, families and communities, with regard to their spiritual, psychological, social, and physical needs. This care is provided with compassion and without judgment, to assure clients enter a state of maximum wellness. ....... The bedrock of my personal nursing philosophy is my steadfast belief that we are all equal regardless of race, socioeconomic status, religion, or lifestyle preferences. I look upon each of my patients as a child of God, worthy of my absolute best regardless of any of the above mentioned stations in life, and regardless of the circumstances that finds them in my care......... I am called to nursing to care for patients without judgment, leaving that to God. This is important because of the patient population I care for are frequently challenged with alcoholism, drug addiction, homelessness, domestic violence, and psychiatric problems. Many of the clients I care for have been in accidents that involve them drinking and driving, or having been assaulted while involved in drug deals, and many are infamous criminals involved in murders or other crimes. They are put in my care for me to help them recover from their trauma or illness without my judgment. I always try to remember the old saying "but for the grace of God, go I". Also, many clients' religious and cultural traditions about life and health are different than my own. I strive to respect other's beliefs and incorporate them in the plan of care when possible............. My knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology teach me to properly assess on an ongoing basis my clients' physical wellbeing and needs. Staying abreast of current scientific knowledge through continuing education and reading of nursing journals is part of this process...........I also believe in the mind-body connection. I believe that positive thinking, hope, laughter, and prayer can have a positive effect on getting ill people well, and keeping well people in a state of good health.