Kurt Lewin’s Change Theory
It is important to note that Kurt Lewin’s Change Theory is a three-step model describing the change process in individuals and organizations. The three steps are unfreezing, changing, and refreezing (Wagner, 2018). Lewin’s Change Theory addresses nursing by using it to guide the implementation of change in patient care (Wagner, 2018). The theory acknowledges that change can be challenging and disruptive for patients and healthcare providers. Thus, it highlights the need for careful planning, clear communication, and support during the change process.
Lewin’s Change Theory views the person as an active participant in the change process. It views individuals as having unique perspectives and experiences, which must be considered when initiating change (Abd el-shafy et al., 2019). Therefore, people need to be involved in the change process. The environment, the theoretical framework, is seen as a factor shaping behavior and facilitating change, which is why it promotes creating a supportive and facilitative environment (Abd el-shaft et al., 2019).
Lewin’s Change Theory addresses health as a dynamic state influenced by many factors, such as physical, social, and environmental factors, which is why a comprehensive approach is necessary. Lastly, for the illness, the theory recognizes that illness can be a source of stress and disruption for individuals (Wagner, 2018). It emphasizes the need for support and resources to help individuals cope with illness and navigate the change process.
Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory
Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory can be described as a theory that emphasizes the importance of self-care in maintaining health and preventing illness. The theory comprises three key interrelated concepts: self-care, self-care deficit, and the nursing system (Hartweg & Metcalfe, 2021). In the case of nursing, Orem’s theory highlights the importance of identifying and addressing self-care deficits in patients (Nasresabetghadam et al., 2021). The theory suggests that nursing interventions should focus on promoting and supporting self-care activities rather than simply providing care to the patient. Nurses are facilitators of self-care, providing guidance and support to help patients maintain or improve their health.
The theoretical framework addresses a person as an active agent in their care. It suggests that individuals have a natural desire to care for themselves, which is influenced by their culture, experiences, and environment (Nasresabetghadam et al., 2021). Thus, individuals might have different levels of self-care ability and may require assistance to maintain or improve their health.
In the case of the environment, it also influences self-care behavior (Hartweg & Metcalfe, 2021). The environment can either facilitate or hinder self-care activities and therefore, nurses should work to create a supportive environment that promotes self-care. In terms of health, being healthy is an optimal functioning state, which is achieved through practical self-care activities. Finally, illness can result from a self-care deficit, and nursing interventions should address this deficit (Nasresabetghadam et al., 2021). Thus, nursing interventions should help individuals identify and address self-care deficits, promoting health and preventing illness.
How The Two Theories Are Applicable in My Current Practice
Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory and Kurt Lewin’s Change Theory apply in my current nursing practice when assessing patient needs and creating a supportive environment. I can use both theories to guide my assessments of patients’ needs and to develop individualized care plans by identifying self-care deficits and understanding their situation. For the environment, the theories help create a supportive environment that promotes patient self-care and facilitates the implementation of new interventions.
References
Abd el-shafy, I., Zapke, J., Sargeant, D., Prince, J., & Christopherson, N. A. M. (2019). Decreased pediatric trauma length of stay and improved disposition with implementation of Lewin’s change model. Journal of Trauma Nursing, 26(2), 84-88. Web.
Hartweg, D. L., & Metcalfe, S. A. (2021). Orem’s self-care deficit nursing theory: Relevance and need for refinement. Nursing Science Quarterly, 35(1), 70-76. Web.
Nasresabetghadam, S., Jahanshahi, M., Fotokian, Z., Nasiri, M., & Hajiahmadi, M. (2021). The effects of Orem’s self-care theory on self-care behaviors among older women with hypertension: A randomized controlled trial. Nursing and Midwifery Studies, 10(2), 99-108. Web.
Wagner, J. (2018). Leadership and influencing change in nursing. Press Books.