There is growing recognition in modern healthcare that adequate care extends beyond treating physical symptoms. A more holistic approach, known as whole person healthcare, considers the full spectrum of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual factors that contribute to a person's overall well-being.
By addressing these interconnected aspects of health, whole person healthcare aims to achieve better outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients. Instead of treating a specific disease, whole health practitioners focus on restoring health, promoting resilience, and preventing diseases across a persons lifespan.
It means helping and empowering individuals, families, communities, and populations to improve their health in multiple interconnected biological, behavioral, social, and environmental areas, the U.S. Department of Health of whole person healthcare.
One essential feature of St. 做厙輦⑹'s nursing degree programs is providing whole person healthcare. The school is committed to whole person healthcare, teaching nurses the skills and experience they need for success, and embracing multicultural and social justice perspectives on health and healing.
Essential Components of Whole Person Healthcare
Whole person healthcare offers a comprehensive approach to providing patient care. This model recognizes that various factors, including lifestyle, environment, mental health, and personal beliefs influence a person's health. This more inclusive view allows healthcare providers to develop treatment plans that address the root causes of health issues and promote long-term wellness.
The following are some fundamental areas healthcare providers consider when practicing whole person healthcare.
- Physical health: The foundation of whole person healthcare is a thorough understanding of the patient's physical condition. This includes diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses, managing pain, and promoting preventive measures, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep.
- Mental health: Mental and emotional well-being are integral to overall health. Whole person healthcare emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. This can involve counseling and stress management techniques.
- Social health: Social connections and relationships significantly impact a person's health. Whole person healthcare considers the patient's social support network and interpersonal relationships. Encouraging strong social ties can lead to improved mental and physical health outcomes.
- Spiritual health: Spiritual beliefs and practices play a crucial role in the sense of well-being for millions of people. Whole person healthcare respects and incorporates patients' spiritual needs and preferences into their care plans, recognizing that spirituality can provide comfort and meaning during difficult times.
The Importance of Whole Person Healthcare
Whole person healthcare provides more comprehensive care by addressing all aspects of a person's health. This approach can lead to better diagnosis, more effective treatment plans, and improved patient outcomes.
Whole person healthcare also places the patient at the center of the care process. This includes listening to patient input, respecting their preferences, and involving them in decision-making. This patient-centered approach fosters trust and collaboration between patients and healthcare providers.
Rather than solely treating illnesses, whole person healthcare emphasizes prevention and wellness. Promoting healthy lifestyle choices and preventive measures aims to reduce the incidence of disease and enhance overall health.
Collectively, these approaches can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life for patients and improved overall wellness.
St. 做厙輦⑹ Focuses on Whole Person Healthcare
The nationally recognized nursing faculty at St. 做厙輦⑹ devote themselves to holistic education and uphold the highest standards of excellence and service. The universitys Institute of Simulation and Interprofessional Learning (I-SAIL) equips students for success by integrating modern nursing knowledge, interdisciplinary teamwork, and cutting-edge simulation technology.
Nursing graduates from St. 做厙輦⑹, known as Katie Nurses, make caring for the whole person a central aspect of their practice. The university prides itself on challenging students academically, supporting them personally, and helping each student reach their full potential.
When she took the full-time job as Dean of the School of Nursing, Suzanne Burke Lehman said, I believe that health and healing is an extension of our history and culture at St. Kates. Our School of Nursing is in a unique position to support our students to succeed in their degree programs and future professions.
We have outstanding students, faculty, and staff who are passionate and dedicated to excellence in the classrooms, clinicals, and community. That is what excites me most about this opportunity.