Virginia henderson definition of nursing

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Philadelphia, Lippincott.

  • Meleis Ibrahim Afaf (1997) , Theoretical Nursing : Development & Progress 3rd ed.
  • Move and maintain desirable postures.
  • Joined Columbia as a member of the faculty, remained until 1948.
  • Since 1953, a research associate at Yale University School of Nursing.

    Addressing these needs led to improved quality of life and reduced hospital readmissions.

  • Potter A Patricia, Perry G Anne (1992) Fundamentals Of Nursing –Concepts Process & Practice 3rd ed. For example, “Impaired mobility related to surgical pain” links to Henderson’s fourth component (movement and posture).

    virginia henderson definition of nursing

    Theoretical Basis for Nursing Philadelphia. A patient who is unable to express fears or concerns may suffer emotionally even if their physical care is optimal. Over time, these targeted interventions not only address immediate deficits but also promote gradual independence, reducing the likelihood of relapse or readmission.

    What are the 14 Basic Needs According to Virginia Henderson?

    What are the 14 basic needs outlined by Henderson?

    Virginia Henderson’s nursing theory, also known as the needs theory, is most widely recognized for its identification of the 14 basic needs of the patient.

    This demonstrates the practical application of the theory in improving patient outcomes.

    The theory also supports the base for professional nursing practice because it emphasizes both independent and collaborative functions of the nurse.

  • Her definition and components are logical and the 14 components are a guide for the individual and nurse in reaching the chosen goal.

  • 1. A nurse applying Henderson’s framework would assess the extent of limitation, implement interventions like pain control and assisted ambulation, and gradually encourage the patient to regain mobility. In this way, the nursing process becomes anchored to needs: assessment identifies which of the 14 components are unmet, planning targets specific interventions, and evaluation measures whether the patient is regaining the ability to perform those activities.

    For instance, consider a postoperative patient who cannot move freely because of pain.

    Whether in acute care, community health, or long-term care environments, the framework underscores how structured assessments and interventions can lead to improved health outcomes. They range from essential physical functions such as breathing, eating, and eliminating wastes to broader human experiences like communication, learning, and recreation.

    Henderson believed that when an individual cannot independently satisfy one or more of these human needs, the unique function of the nurse is to step in—either by doing for the patient, helping the patient to do, or teaching them to regain independence.

    The quality of care is drastically affected by the preparation and native ability of the nursing personnel rather that the amount of hours of care.

    Successful outcomes of nursing care are based on the speed with which or degree to which the patient performs independently the activities of daily living

    Comparison with Maslow's Hierarchy of Need

    Maslow'sHenderson
    Physiological needs

    Breathe normally

    Eat and drink adequately Eliminate by all avenues of elimination Move and maintain desirable posture Sleep and rest Select suitable clothing Maintain body temperature Keep body clean and well groomed and protect the integument
    Safety Needs

    Avoid environmental dangers and avoid injuring other

    Belongingness and love needs

    Communicate with others

    worship according to one's faith

    Esteem needs

    Work at something providing a sense of accomplishment

    Play or participate in various forms of recreation

    Learn, discover, or satisfy curiosity

    Characteristics of Henderson's Theory

    • There is interrelation of concepts.
    • Concepts of fundamental human needs, biophysiology, culture, and interaction, communication are borrowed from other discipline.Eg..

      They encompass physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of human life:

      1. Breathe normally
      2. Eat and drink adequately
      3. Eliminate body wastes
      4. Move and maintain desirable postures
      5. Sleep and rest
      6. Select suitable clothes—dress and undress
      7. Maintain body temperature within normal range by adjusting clothing and modifying environment
      8. Keep the body clean and well groomed and protect the integument
      9. Avoid dangers in the environment and prevent injury
      10. Communicate with others in expressing emotions, needs, fears, or opinions
      11. Worship according to one’s faith
      12. Work in such a way that there is a sense of accomplishment
      13. Play or participate in various forms of recreation
      14. Learn, discover, or satisfy curiosity that leads to normal development and health, and use available health facilities.

      Henderson’s framework reflects her belief that the nature of nursing lies in assisting patients to meet these needs when they are unable to do so independently.

    • If the assumption is made that the 14 components prioritized, the relationship among the components is unclear. Structured learning around the 14 components ensures students see how the theory underpins both fundamental and advanced nursing practice.
  • Mentorship and preceptorship programs
    • Hospitals often pair student nurses with experienced staff who model theory-based nursing care.

      Their importance lies in:

      1. Universality: Henderson designed the needs to apply to all people, regardless of age, culture, or health condition.