NR-700: Scientific Underpinnings

Introduction

The NR-700 is a nursing course that focuses on the scientific underpinnings of nursing practice. It is designed to equip nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based care to patients. The course covers various scientific concepts and theories that underlie nursing practice. These concepts and theories provide a framework for understanding the nature of health, illness, and the role of nurses in promoting health and preventing disease.

The Scientific Basis of Nursing Practice

Nursing is an evidence-based practice, which means that it is guided by scientific knowledge and research. The scientific basis of nursing practice is built on various disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology, and anatomy. These disciplines provide a foundation for understanding the human body, the nature of health and illness, and the factors that influence health outcomes.

Biology

Biology is the study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. In nursing, biology is used to understand the structure and function of the human body. This knowledge is essential for nurses to identify and assess changes in a patient’s health status. Nurses must have a solid understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to provide effective care to their patients.

Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of the properties and behavior of matter. In nursing, chemistry is used to understand the chemical processes that occur in the human body. Nurses must understand the basic principles of chemistry to administer medications safely and effectively. They must also understand the chemical properties of various substances, such as blood, to provide appropriate care to patients.

Physics

Physics is the study of the properties and behavior of matter and energy. In nursing, physics is used to understand the principles of energy transfer, such as heat and radiation. Nurses must understand the principles of physics to provide safe care to patients, such as the safe administration of radiation therapy.

Psychology

Psychology is the study of the human mind and behavior. In nursing, psychology is used to understand how patients think and feel about their health and illness. Nurses must understand the psychological and emotional factors that influence patient behavior to provide effective care. They must also be able to communicate effectively with patients to establish a rapport and build trust.

Sociology

Sociology is the study of human society and social behavior. In nursing, sociology is used to understand the social and cultural factors that influence health and illness. Nurses must understand the social determinants of health to provide effective care to patients. They must also be aware of cultural differences and how these differences affect patient care.

Theories and Models in Nursing

Nursing practice is guided by various theories and models. These theories and models provide a framework for understanding the nature of nursing practice and the role of nurses in promoting health and preventing disease.

Theory of Human Caring

The Theory of Human Caring, developed by Jean Watson, emphasizes the importance of caring in nursing practice. According to this theory, caring is a fundamental component of nursing practice, and nurses should strive to establish a caring relationship with their patients. The theory emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and respect in nursing practice.

Health Promotion Model

The Health Promotion Model, developed by Nola Pender, emphasizes the importance of promoting health and preventing disease. According to this model, health is a dynamic state that is influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Nurses should focus on promoting health and preventing disease by addressing these factors.

NR-704: Concepts in Population Health Outcomes

Self-Care Deficit Theory

The Self-Care Deficit Theory, developed by Dorothea Orem, emphasizes the importance of self-care in nursing practice. According to this theory, individuals have a natural desire to care for themselves, but sometimes require assistance to meet their basic needs. Nurses should focus on assisting patients to meet their self-care needs to promote health and prevent illness.

Transcultural Nursing Model

The Transcultural Nursing Model, developed by Madeleine Leininger, emphasizes the importance of cultural competence in nursing practice. According to this model, nurses should understand and respect the cultural beliefs and values of their patients to provide effective care. This model emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, cultural knowledge, and cultural skills in nursing practice.

Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

Evidence-based practice is a critical component of nursing practice. It involves using the best available evidence to inform clinical decision-making and provide effective care to patients. Evidence-based practice involves the following steps:

Asking a Clinical Question

The first step in evidence-based practice is to ask a clinical question. The question should be focused on a specific patient problem or issue.

Searching for Evidence

The next step is to search for evidence to answer the clinical question. Nurses should use reliable sources of information, such as peer-reviewed journals and databases, to find the best available evidence.

Critically Appraising the Evidence

Once the evidence has been found, it must be critically appraised to determine its relevance and validity. Nurses should evaluate the quality of the evidence and determine if it is applicable to their patient’s situation.

Integrating the Evidence into Practice

The next step is to integrate the evidence into practice. Nurses should use the best available evidence to inform their clinical decision-making and provide effective care to patients.

Evaluating the Outcome

The final step is to evaluate the outcome of the care provided. Nurses should monitor the patient’s response to treatment and adjust their care plan as needed.

Conclusion

The NR-700 course provides nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based care to patients. The course covers various scientific concepts and theories that underlie nursing practice, including biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology. Nurses must also be familiar with various theories and models in nursing, such as the Theory of Human Caring, Health Promotion Model, Self-Care Deficit Theory, and Transcultural Nursing Model. Evidence-based practice is a critical component of nursing practice, and nurses must be able to ask clinical questions, search for evidence, critically appraise the evidence, integrate the evidence into practice, and evaluate the outcome of care provided. Overall, the NR-700 course equips nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide effective, evidence-based care to patients.