The Orem model of nursing is a theory of nursing care developed by Dorothea Orem in the 1950s. It is based on the belief that individuals have the inherent ability to care for themselves to a certain extent, but may require assistance from a nurse in certain situations. The Orem model focuses on the patient as an individual, taking into account their physical, psychological, and social needs. It emphasizes the importance of nursing intervention in helping patients achieve their maximum level of self-care.
According to the Orem model, there are three main concepts that form the basis of nursing care: self-care, self-care deficit, and nursing systems. Self-care refers to the actions individuals take to maintain their health and well-being, such as bathing, dressing, and taking medications. Self-care deficit occurs when an individual is unable to meet their self-care needs due to physical, mental, or emotional limitations. In these situations, the nurse is responsible for providing the necessary assistance to help the patient meet their self-care needs.
The Orem model also recognizes that there are different levels of self-care, ranging from total self-care to total dependence on others. The nurse's role is to assess the patient's level of self-care and provide the appropriate level of support. This can involve teaching the patient new self-care skills, providing emotional support, or administering medications.
The Orem model also emphasizes the importance of nursing systems in providing care. A nursing system is a structured approach to care that involves the nurse working with other healthcare professionals to develop a plan of care for the patient. This may include establishing goals for the patient, coordinating care with other healthcare professionals, and monitoring the patient's progress.
One of the main strengths of the Orem model is its focus on the individual needs of the patient. By taking into account the patient's physical, psychological, and social needs, the nurse is able to provide care that is tailored to the patient's specific needs. This can result in a more personalized and effective approach to care.
In conclusion, the Orem model of nursing is a theory of care that emphasizes the importance of nursing intervention in helping patients achieve their maximum level of self-care. It recognizes the patient as an individual with unique needs and emphasizes the role of nursing systems in providing care. Overall, the Orem model provides a comprehensive approach to nursing that is focused on the needs of the patient.