Watson's Theory Analysis

Watson’s Theory and Mental Health Nursing The theories and works of Jean Watson have had an immeasurable impact on the practice and theory of nursing today. Watson has accomplished much in her life and career as a nurse and continues to contribute to the field of nursing. Watson’s theory has been focalized around the ten carative factors, now the ten caritas processes, and uses those to guide the practice of nursing. Watson incorporates empiricism as well as tools such as transcendent phenomenology. As with all theories and philosophies, Watson’s theory has weaknesses and strengths, however, it has been improved over time to match the changes through time.

Theory Analysis Watson’s theory may be described as an emphasis on the holistic aspect

The theory supports the idea that nurses should be in a relationship with the client in which being is much more important than doing. Watson’s caritas processes may even be used as a guide of nursing care standards in client interaction, as it is in Dudkiewicz’s study (Dudkiewicz, 2014). The holistic view of nursing is strongly supported by Watson’s theory and addresses how this should be in the nurse-client relationship. In the few units that use Watson’s theory, it can be used to change the whole of the unit in dramatic ways. In Summerell’s study, the unit that began to implement Watson’s caritas processes saw impressive changes in a positive direction. The unit’s National Database for Nursing Quality Improvement Practice Environment scores increased from the 10th percentile to the 95th percentile, its health system employee engagement scores increased from the 38th percentile to the 85th percentile, and its national specialty certification staff members have increased from 6 to 64 percent of staff (Summerell,

Mental health institutions promote the use of a holistic care more than that of a strictly medical hospital does. The ideas of Watson, though mostly unintentional, can be seen in the practice of mental health professionals. Treatment in mental health practices gives importance to mind, body, and spirit when client care is involved. This is done to improve the healing process for each individual and to improve their own understanding of him or herself.

Conclusion

Watson’s theory and caritas processes are a very powerful tool and way of nursing that has been improved in practice and over time. Watson’s focus on the balance of mind, body, and soul has been proven to improve practice and continues to shape the way nurses care. The caritas processes are used in many different types of institutions, it is used in mental health and somatic health as well. While there are strengths and weaknesses with the theory, it can still be used to improve care and practice of nurses. 

References

Alligood, M. R. (2018). Nursing theorists and their work (9th ed.). St. Louis, MO: