The Evolution of Nursing: A Focus on the Roper-Logan-Tierney Model

Categories: HealthNursing

Introduction

Over the past three decades, nursing has undergone a profound transformation, evolving from a task-oriented approach to a more systematic and logical method guided by nursing theories and models (Pearson et al, 1996). The role of a nurse extends beyond the simple provision of care based on a patient's diagnosis during hospitalization. According to Neuman (1980), individuals are best viewed as whole systems, and there are common features across species, emphasizing a core set of characteristics in people. The integration of nursing models, often referred to as philosophies, conceptual frameworks, paradigms, theories, and metatheories (Fawcett, 1995), has become essential in providing a guiding framework for professionals working in specific healthcare domains.

The recognition of patients as holistic beings with unique needs has led to the development and adoption of various nursing models.

One of the widely utilized models is the Roper-Logan-Tierney model, introduced by Nancy Roper and her colleagues in 2001. This model places a significant emphasis on a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living, considering individuals as engaged in various life activities throughout their lifespan.

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This engagement fluctuates between total independence and dependence, influenced by factors such as age, circumstances, and health status. Often termed a human need model, it finds practical application in cardiac wards, where nurses employ it to comprehensively assess heart disease patients' lifestyles. This assessment covers aspects like diet restrictions, medication management, and potential problems demanding nursing attention.

Nursing Models: Shaping the Future of Healthcare

The evolution of nursing models has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare.

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The transition from a task-oriented approach to a more systematic and theory-driven method signifies a fundamental shift in how healthcare professionals perceive and engage with patients. Nursing models serve as roadmaps, guiding nurses through the intricate landscape of patient care.

Neuman's perspective, viewing individuals as whole systems, laid the groundwork for recognizing the interconnectedness of various aspects of health. This perspective resonates with the holistic nature of nursing models, which consider not only the patient's physical ailments but also their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. The shift towards systematic approaches, as opposed to mere task execution, has empowered nurses to deliver care that is not only reactive but also proactive, considering the broader context of a patient's life.

Fawcett's categorization of nursing models as philosophies, conceptual frameworks, paradigms, theories, and metatheories reflects the diverse approaches available to healthcare professionals. Each category offers a unique lens through which nurses can interpret and address the complex needs of their patients. This diversity acknowledges the multifaceted nature of healthcare and emphasizes the importance of flexibility in adopting models that align with specific patient populations and healthcare contexts.

Roper-Logan-Tierney Model of Nursing: A Human Need Perspective

Among the myriad nursing models, the Roper-Logan-Tierney model stands out for its human need perspective. Developed in 2001, this model takes a holistic view of patients, recognizing that their ability to perform activities of daily living is central to their overall well-being. The model acknowledges that individuals engage in various life activities throughout their lifespan, and this engagement fluctuates based on age, circumstances, and health status.

In the dynamic environment of cardiac wards, where patients often grapple with the complexities of heart diseases, the Roper-Logan-Tierney model serves as an invaluable tool. Nurses utilize this model to assess heart disease patients' lifestyles comprehensively. The assessment delves into intricate details such as diet restrictions, medication management, and potential problems that may require focused nursing care. By adopting a human need perspective, the model enables nurses to go beyond the surface and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and strengths inherent in each patient's life.

Nursing Practice with Roper-Logan-Tierney Model

To illustrate the practical application of the Roper-Logan-Tierney model, let's consider the context of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), a prevalent health issue globally. When patients with ACS are admitted, they undergo a comprehensive assessment using the institution's standardized tool. This tool incorporates a section specifically designed to evaluate a patient's level of independence in various activities of daily living, including eating, communicating, mobilizing, eliminating, and maintaining hygiene.

The assessment serves as a preoperative baseline, allowing healthcare professionals to determine the extent of the impact of a heart attack on a patient's independence. Postoperatively, the assessment guides nursing care by identifying the activities of daily living in which patients need the most assistance. By integrating the Roper-Logan-Tierney model into this process, nurses gain insights into the unique challenges posed by heart disease, enabling them to tailor their care to address specific needs effectively.

Roper Logan Tierney's Theory, although initially developed in 1980, remains influential in nursing practice today. While it was originally conceived as an approach to ongoing care, it is presently utilized as a checklist on admission. This checklist, grounded in the model of living, offers a structured framework for nursing assessment. By adopting a systematic and theory-driven approach, nurses can ensure a comprehensive evaluation of patients, considering not only their immediate health concerns but also their broader lifestyle choices and challenges.

The application of the Roper-Logan-Tierney model enables healthcare professionals to go beyond traditional assessments, providing a nuanced understanding of heart disease patients' lives. This deeper insight is crucial in tailoring care plans that are both holistic and patient-centered, addressing not only the physiological aspects of heart disease but also the intricate interplay of lifestyle factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evolution of nursing towards a more systematic and theory-driven approach has ushered in a new era of patient care. The adoption of nursing models, such as the Roper-Logan-Tierney model, reflects a commitment to providing care that is not only technologically advanced but also deeply human-centric. The emphasis on activities of daily living, inherent in the Roper-Logan-Tierney model, acknowledges the fundamental human need for independence and well-being.

While the Roper-Logan-Tierney model proves to be a valuable tool in guiding nursing practice, it is essential to acknowledge that no model is without its strengths and limitations. A nuanced examination of its practical application, considering real-world examples and diverse healthcare scenarios, can deepen our understanding of its effectiveness. As nursing continues to evolve, the value and relevance of models like Roper-Logan-Tierney persist, contributing to the dynamic landscape of contemporary healthcare.

Updated: Jan 02, 2024
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The Evolution of Nursing: A Focus on the Roper-Logan-Tierney Model. (2016, Jun 15). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/roper-logan-tierney-model-of-nursing-essay

The Evolution of Nursing: A Focus on the Roper-Logan-Tierney Model essay
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