Nsg324

Introduction to Professional Nursing

Maureen Hammond

Discussion on Nursing Theorists

I chose Betty Neuman due to the fact that our group is presenting her theory. I felt

that this would give me the impetus to read further about her theory. In 1970 Betty

Neuman was asked to develop a teaching tool for the graduate nursing students at UCLA.

After two years of student evaluation she published her “Systems Model” in the Journal

of Nursing Research (Reed, 1993).

Thoughts on theory

There are a few reasons for finding myself attracted to this theory. I like the focus

on the client/patient, including their physiological, psychological, sociocultural,

developmental and spiritual components. Newman's theory talks about health and

wellness being one and the same. Health she describes as a continuum (Reed, 1993). At

first glance her “Systems Model” might put people off because of the somewhat complex

nature. Given the fact that it is a “grand theory” it may seem too ethereal for some.

However after some study I find this theory to be appealing because that it mentions

prevention as an intervention and focuses on the entire client.

Application in Practice

I see this theory as being very applicable in the home health field, in hospice, or in

other areas where it is imperative to obtain a thorough assessment. Unfortunately, in

surgery where I have worked for nineteen years, my time to do an assessment is very

brief. I sometimes have less than one minute to interview them or look at their chart. In
surgery we implement nursing interventions to prevent injuries and untoward outcomes.

We take into account their previous health history as we quickly formulate a plan of care

for them. I see those areas mentioned previously as lending themselves more to this

nursing theory.

Reference:

Reed K. S. (1993). Betty Neuman the Neuman systems model