Identify the time in history that you believe has impacted nursing the most and describe the changes that were made in healthcare at that time. Describe the components of one nursing theory that resonates with you that would fit your nursing practice.

One of the most impactful times in history for nursing was during the mid-19th century, particularly during the Crimean War (1853-1856). Florence Nightingale emerged as a pivotal figure in nursing during this period. Her work transformed nursing into a respected profession and laid the foundation for modern nursing practices. ### Changes in Healthcare: 1. **Professionalization of Nursing**: Nightingale advocated for nursing to be recognized as a profession. She established the first formal nursing school, the Nightingale Training School for Nurses, in 1860, which educated nurses with a focus on patient care principles and evidence-based practices. 2. **Emphasis on Sanitation**: Nightingale’s observations highlighted the importance of cleanliness, sanitation, and proper nutrition in patient care. She introduced reforms in hospital sanitation, significantly reducing death rates due to infections and poor hygiene. 3. **Data Collection and Analysis**: Nightingale was one of the first to use statistical data to advocate for healthcare reform. Her use of statistics demonstrated the relationship between sanitary conditions and patient outcomes, leading to reforms in hospitals and military healthcare. 4. **Nursing Education**: The establishment of nursing schools based on Nightingale’s model meant that nurses were trained in a systematic way. This shifted the perception of nursing from being a role held by women with no formal training to that of educated professionals. 5. **Holistic Care Approach**: Nightingale emphasized the importance of psychological and spiritual well-being in addition to physical care, setting the stage for a more holistic approach to patient care. ### Nursing Theory: One nursing theory that resonates deeply with my nursing practice is Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring. This theory emphasizes the importance of caring and its impact on patient outcomes, which is central to nursing practice. The core components of Watson's theory include: 1. **Transpersonal Caring Relationship**: It emphasizes the connection and relationship between nurse and patient, maintaining that an authentic caring relationship fosters healing. 2. **Caring Philosophy**: At its core, this theory underscores the idea that caring is the ethical and moral foundation of nursing. It reflects a commitment to being present and engaged with patients. 3. **Caring Factors**: Watson outlines ten "carative factors" which are essential for fostering a caring environment. These factors include the formation of a humanistic-altruistic system of values, instilling faith-hope, developing a helping-trust relationship, and promoting sensitivity to oneself and others. 4. **Mind-Body-Spirit Connection**: Watson’s theory recognizes the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit in health care, reflecting an understanding that healing transcends physical treatment. ### Fit with Nursing Practice: Watson's Theory of Human Caring aligns well with my nursing practice as it focuses on the importance of empathy, compassion, and the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship. In my practice, I strive to provide holistic care that acknowledges patients as individuals with emotional, spiritual, and psychological needs, not just medical conditions. By fostering a caring environment, I can support patients' recovery and contribute positively to their overall well-being. This approach encourages me to create connections with my patients, enhancing their trust and promoting a healing atmosphere.