The basic needs of a patient must be met in order to establish a baseline and to be able to effectively put together a plan of care. Virginia Henderson’s nursing definition and 14 components to nursing care encompasses the basic needs of the patient, but also includes the patient as a whole. I also believe that the mind, body and spirit as well as environment must be considered in the care of the patient. As a nurse, my goal is to assist my patients in accomplishing an outcome that is unique to their situation. This could include a full recovery as well as a peaceful death. If I am considering the patient as a whole, including their basic needs as well as their mental and spiritual well-being, I can then assist the patient in reaching their full potential as independently as possible. Henderson also believed in the importance of the patient having independent function aside of their nursing care. I believe this aids in helping the patient maintain autonomy and dignity, which is critical in the patient’s overall health and potential outcomes.

Masters, K. (2023). Role Development in Professional Nursing Practice (6th ed.). Jones &
Bartlett Learning.