What is holistic nursing care?

Holistic nursing care is an approach that emphasizes the importance of treating the whole person, rather than focusing solely on a single aspect of health. This means addressing not just the physical health of a patient, but also their emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Holistic nursing recognizes that these various dimensions of a person's life are interconnected and can significantly affect overall health and well-being.

This comprehensive approach allows nurses to consider all factors that may impact a patient’s health. For instance, when developing a care plan, a nurse might assess not only physical symptoms but also how a patient’s support system, lifestyle, and mental health status could affect their recovery. Holistic nursing also encourages the incorporation of complementary therapies, patient education, and self-care practices that empower patients to take an active role in their health.

The other options tend to focus narrowly on specific aspects of health. For example, limiting care to just physical health or mental health neglects the vast interconnected needs of individuals. Suggesting that the practice is restricted to observation overlooks the active and dynamic role nurses play in implementing interventions and fostering comprehensive solutions. Holistic nursing, therefore, is characterized by a broad and inclusive approach to patient care.