Offered
Gippsland First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Hong Kong First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Macau First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Malaysia First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Peninsula First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
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:
- Explore the philosophical underpinnings of human caring;
- Critically evaluate theories of caring in nursing;
- Appreciate how dimensions of holistic caring can enhance practice;
- Explain how specific caring-healing modalities can be used to achieve optimal health outcomes;
- Discuss issues in caring work in the contemporary health care environment;
- Analyse personal accounts of the illness experience and caring;
- Evaluate methodologies for researching caring in nursing; and
- 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%).
