Question

is the orem theory congruent with current nursing standard?

Answer 1

Dorothea Orem (1914-2007) Bsc.Ed, Msc.Ed born in Baltimore, US.She summarized this theory from her own experience in nursing. This theory was called Orem's theory of self care . There are three subtheories theory of self care, theory of self care deficit, theory of nursing systems.

Self care theory:

Self care are activities that an individual can perform on their own in for quality life ,health and well being.When the self care is practised it helps in human development .Self care agency is the ability for engaging in self care by an individual influenced by developmental stages , experience, sociocultural factors , physical environment and availability of adequate resources.Therapeutic Self care demand activities is the total of care activities needed at any moment contributing to wellness .Self care requisities are actions towards provision of self care. The three categories in self care requisites include Universal self care requisites,Developmental self care requisites,Health deviation self care requisites.

Theory of self care deficit:

It is the central focus of Orem theory. This theory explains about how nursing helps the individuals.Nursing can help people by providing care, help in self care activities, guiding , encouraging , physical and psychological support ,directing, educating and helping in personal developments.

In Orems theory the UNIVERSAL SELF-CARE REQUISITES include air which is necessary to breathe(respiration), water (fluid intake by patient),elimination(bowel and bladder habits), activity/rest (activity level of patient),social interaction (communication and social relations),Promotion of human functioning are discussed which are in current nursing practice.

History (data) collected to the patient currently is based on Orem's theory which includes name, age, gender, family, system, environment, available resources.

So it is visible that orem theory is congruent with current nursing standard. Her theory has greater influence and is used in current nursing.