Watson's Theory of Human Caring
Sandra Middlestate
NUR/403
April 16, 2012

Watson's Theory of Human Caring

In this paper on Watson’s theory of human caring it will briefly describe the theories background and concepts. In discussion of an actual nurse patient event I have had in Obstetrics it will analyze major theory assumptions related to person, health, nursing and environment in the context of this caring moment, along with a personal reflection of this caring moment.
Born in West Virginia theorist Jean Watson has had a very distinguished career, as a nurse educator and researcher in the area of “human caring and loss” (Nursing Theories, 2012, p.1). Beginning her education with a BSN from University of
Nursing- a human science of peoples and human health: illness experiences that are mediated by professional, personal, scientific, aesthetic, and ethical human care transactions.” (Nursing Theorist, 2012. P. 12) The theory also has ten carative factors as per Alligood, (2010, p113-116) that are “1- The formation of a humanistic-altruistic system of values. 2- The instillation of faith-hope. 3- The cultivation of sensitivity to one’s self and to others. 4- The development of helping trusting relationship.5- The promotion and acceptance of the expressions of positive and negative feelings. 6- The systemic use of the scientific problem-solving method for decision making. 7- The promotion of interpersonal teaching-learning. 8- The provision for supportive, protective, and corrective mental, physical, sociocultural, and spiritual environment. 9- Assistance with the gratification of human needs. 10- The allowance of existential-phenomenological forces.” As a long term obstetrical nurse I have had many caring interactions with many patients, related to the framework of all of the ten carative factors. Obstetrics is not always a happy area of medicine, patients experience loss in a variety of circumstances. During my career I have come to terms with my own mind, body, and spiritual needs, I was eighteen years old when I had my LPN license and began working in a hospital, with minimal life experiences. This growth has