NUR9842 - The social ecology of caring

Leader(s): Associate Professor Ysanne Chapman

Offered

Not offered in 2009

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%).