NUR9842

Graduate nursing studies: Caring in nursing ( 12 points, SCA Band 0, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Ms Jeni Grubb

Offered:
Gippsland First semester 2006 (OCL)
Hong Kong First semester 2006 (OCL)
Malaysia First semester 2006 (OCL)
OS-MACAU First semester 2006 (OCL)
Peninsula First semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit examines the notion that caring is a central component of nursing theory, research and practice. Theories of caring developed by Watson, Benner, Leininger and others are critically examined. Caring is viewed as linked with socio-cultural values, ethics, spirituality, politics, economics, and, philosophy. Philosophical views are drawn from the existentialists, phenomenologists and feminists. Unit also examines holistic healing modalities, complementary and alternative therapies; individual's accounts of the experience of illness; and caring work in today's health care environment. Students are encouraged to relate caring to human growth as a search for meaning and creativity.

Objectives: It is anticipated that in undertaking this unit, students will be able to: 1. Explore the philosophical underpinnings of human caring; 2. Critically evaluate theories of caring in nursing; 3. Appreciate how dimensions of holistic caring can enhance practice; 4. Explain how specific caring-healing modalities can be used to achieve optimal health outcomes; 5. Discuss issues in caring work in the contemporary health care environment; 6. Analyse personal accounts of the illness experience and caring; 7. Evaluate methodologies for researching caring in nursing; and 8. Critically reflect upon holism, and caring themes and issues in their own area of nursing practice.

Assessment: Essay 3,000 words (30%), Essay 6,00 - 6,500 words (70%).