Nursing Philosophy: Fostering Positive Nurse-Physician Relationships Free Essay Example

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Introduction

A philosophy of nursing should encompass a comprehensive understanding of the profession, rooted in core values and beliefs, and enriched through practical experience. This essay explores the multifaceted nature of nursing, emphasizing the significance of positive nurse-physician relationships. It delves into the evolution of nursing careers, the impact of communication on patient outcomes, and the importance of continuous growth in the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

The relationship between nurses and physicians is integral to the ethical dimensions of care, often giving rise to complex dilemmas.

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A study conducted by Corley MC in 1998 highlighted, "Differences in values, communication, trust, and responsibilities can precipitate conflict between nurses and physicians over ethical components of care." This conflict underscores the importance of developing a robust theoretical knowledge base and seamlessly applying it in clinical practice, marking a crucial aspect of a nurse's evolutionary journey.

The evolution of a nursing career is empowering, necessitating positive nurse-physician relationships for confidence and growth. This importance has been widely acknowledged in literature by authors such as Baggs (1989), Baggs & Schmitt (1988), Eubanks (1991), Fagin (1992), Mechanic & Aiken (1982), and Prescott & Bowen (1985).

As professionals, it is our responsibility to mentor peers, fostering an environment that benefits not only ourselves but our patients and their families.

Effective communication and collaboration among practitioners, as well as with physicians, directly influence patient outcomes. The ability to collaborate with physicians is paramount for practitioners to fulfill their roles. Inexperienced or less assertive practitioners may find it challenging to address critical issues, such as obtaining a "Do Not Resuscitate" order or educating families about the implications of medical interventions.

The experienced practitioner's adept clinical judgment is better articulated due to their comfort in interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring physicians involve them in decision-making processes. Failure in such collaboration leads to negative outcomes for patients, families, and practitioners alike (Michael I Rauchman, BA).

As practitioners, we are often constrained in performing our jobs if we cannot effectively collaborate with physicians. The inexperienced or less assertive practitioner may find it difficult to approach a physician when faced with, for example, a "Do Not Resuscitate" order that has yet to be signed. Approaching a family that needs to be educated on the implications of G-tube placement on their family member with prolonged intubation and no signs of improvement can be daunting without interdisciplinary support.

The more experienced practitioner’s clinical judgment is more easily verbalized because he/she is comfortable in interdisciplinary collaboration, therefore the physician is more likely to involve them in the decision-making process. For example, in an ICU setting where often times the physician does not involve the practitioner in the decision-making process or inform them when a decision has been made, it generally creates one of three things. A. the nurse will continue to aggressively pursue the physician until an order is received B. resort to “slow codes,” or C. resuscitate all patients until told otherwise by the physician (Michael I Rauchman, BA). All of these things lead to negative outcomes for both the families and patients, and we as practitioners.

Future directions of the discipline are revealed when these linkages between philosophy, disciplinary goals, theory, and practice are strengthened (McCurry, et al). It is for these reasons we as practitioners must continually grow and develop through our experiences, always expanding our knowledge in the ever-changing profession we have chosen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the philosophy of nursing is a dynamic concept that extends beyond individual values. Positive nurse-physician relationships play a pivotal role in navigating ethical complexities, ensuring optimal patient outcomes. As practitioners, continuous growth and development are imperative to meet the evolving demands of our noble profession. Strengthening linkages between philosophy, disciplinary goals, theory, and practice is crucial for the future of nursing (McCurry, et al). Through comprehensive understanding and proactive collaboration, nurses can truly make a lasting impact on the well-being of patients and the healthcare system.