Introduction

In this nursing theory assignment one of the important nursing theories would be identified and reviewed in context of their applicability in clinical settings. Theory which is selected for this assignment is “Self care deficit nursing theory” which was developed by Dorothea Orem. This theory was developed in period of 1959 to 2001 and it is also known as Orem model of nursing. This theory is basically used in post operative recovery and rehabilitation part of the treatment where patient is required to be as much independent as possible. In this theory primary care settings are adopted and it is ensured that a patient is brought back to independency as much fast as possible because it is beneficial for both mental and physical health of patient. Central premise of this theory is the fact that “a patient always wishes to take care of himself” and on the basis of this theory treatment plans should be designed (Marquis & Huston, 2009).

Body of Essay

This theory can be applied in many ways in my clinical settings. I am planning to pursue my career in aged care and nursing and this theory is particularly helpful in aged care where a patient is required to remain independent because if they are not independent in doing their basic activities then burden of their care and management would be very high for aged care centres to bear (Richardson-Tench, 2011).

In clinical practice a aged old patient can be encouraged and educated to remain motivated about their health and they should comply with the rehabilitation approached designed by the doctor and nursing team. According to this model deficits in each care setting would be identified by a registered nurse and then these individual deficits would be worked upon for rehabilitation. In clinical settings each patient can be analysed and assessed by the nursing professionals who can determine if patient is physically disable or there are some mental and psychological blockages applicable. It might be possible that if a patient is feeling mentally more depressed and under confident about treatment and recovery then using this theory and enabling patient to take their decisions accordingly would be helpful in feeling good about themselves and their treatment. Similarly giving them an opportunity to do their basic activities would help in developing a confidence of abilities and strength.

Third important applicability of this nursing theory is in regarding palliative care or support treatment to patients who are either suffering from terminal diseases or because of their advanced age no treatment is possible. In such situation providing sufficient care and support to enable them to do their daily routine easily and giving them self confidence to lead a better quality of life is the primary aim of palliative care (Donahue, 2010).

Conclusion

In conclusion it can be said that using self deficit theory is a very important tool in post operative management and rehabilitation especially in case of aged patients. It was observed that this theory is using some fundamental ways of assessing a patient and isolating the areas where deficits are present and then planning of treatment is done accordingly. There are many activities like elimination, sleep, eating, walking, enjoying hobbies etc and in self deficit theory these attributes are considered and given importance. This theory is also chosen because it is observed that all the life style disorders which are limiting the quality of life of a patient are increasing around the world. To manage care of such patients it is important that emphasis should be on both treatment as well as rehabilitation approaches. It is very effective to use self deficit theory because it narrows the target of nursing care professionals and increases their efficiency levels.

References

Richardson-Tench, M. (2011) Finding research problems: Sources and strategies. In Research in nursing: Evidence for best practice (4th ed., pp. 23-34). South Melbourne, Australia: Cengage Learning.

Marquis, B. L. & Huston, C. J. (2009) Leadership roles and management functions in nursing: Theory and application (7th Ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott

Donahue, P. (2010) Nursing, The Finest Art: An Illustrated History (3rd ed. 2010), includes over 400 illustrations; 416p