Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which theorist best supports the concept that caring is a key element in nursing practice?

1. Erikson

2. Maslow

3. Rogers

4. Watson

The correct answer is: Watson

The concept that caring is a key element in nursing practice is most closely associated with Jean Watson, who developed the Theory of Human Caring. Watson emphasizes the importance of the caring relationship between the nurse and the patient, highlighting how this connection can promote healing and improve health outcomes. Her theory transcends traditional medical practices by integrating a holistic approach to care that considers the emotional, spiritual, and physical needs of patients. Watson proposed that caring involves a commitment and ethical responsibility to connect with the patient, which fosters a supportive environment conducive to healing. This focus on the relational aspect of care sets her theory apart in the field of nursing and reinforces the critical role that empathy, compassion, and understanding play in the nursing profession. Other theorists, while significant in their own right, do not center specifically on the concept of caring in the same way. For instance, Erikson's work primarily focuses on developmental stages throughout life, Maslow is known for his hierarchy of needs which outlines human motivation more broadly, and Rogers contributed to the understanding of the humanistic approach in healthcare without specifically emphasizing caring as a central tenet like Watson does. Therefore, Watson's theory distinctly supports the notion that caring is fundamentally important in nursing practice.