Analysis
← vista completaPublished on November 2, 2012 | http://doi.org/10.5867/medwave.2012.10.5548
Henderson’s theory and its application in advanced nursing care in a pediatric ward
Aplicación de la teoría de Henderson y su aproximación al cuidado avanzado en enfermería en un servicio de pediatría
Abstract
Introduction. In order to truly quantify the nursing workload, activities must be registered in the nursing plan and put in the context of a theoretical model of the discipline, as the medical diagnosis does not always explain workloads. Furthermore, the pediatric ward is especially complex due to the high level of patient dependency and concomitant family engagement. Purpose. To identify the use of Henderson’s theory during the nursing process; to critically assess care in the pediatric ward; and to propose strategies to implement advanced nursing care. Methodology. Data was collected using a constructivist participant observation method, with an observer who was part of the pediatric ward for 6 years. Results. When appraising the patient in the pediatric ward, nurses do consider Henderson’s 14 basic needs. However, during planning and carrying out care, only the first 9 needs are actually taken into account, ignoring the needs of communication, religion, adaptation, recreation and education. Conclusions. By using a record based on Henderson's theory that includes all phases of the nursing process, together with a previous awareness and training program that helps guide nurses in the use of the model for patient care by including the family, it will be possible for these professionals to deploy advanced nursing care in the pediatric ward.
