TO PREPARE Review the Learning Resources for this week Pay s ✓ Solved

TO PREPARE Review the Learning Resources for this week. Pay special attention to Chapters 1 and 2 of the McEwen & Wills text. Reflect on your professional experiences, the expertise you have developed and are continuing to develop, and the personal beliefs about nursing practice that you have formed as a result. Consider how your experiences, expertise, and personal beliefs inform the development of your personal philosophy of nursing practice. Consider how your personal philosophy intersects with the four nursing domains: person, environment, health, and nursing.

Consider your goals and plans for expanding your awareness of issues beyond your current practice in alignment with Walden’s mission for social change and the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) framework. Taking all of the above into account, be

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Abstract: This 1500‑word essay explores the development of a personal philosophy of nursing practice grounded in professional experience, academic knowledge, and personal beliefs. Drawing upon McEwen and Wills’ theoretical foundations and the four metaparadigm concepts—person, environment, health, and nursing—this paper articulates a comprehensive and evolving philosophy that aligns with Walden University’s mission for social change. The discussion incorporates the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) framework, ethical practice, future professional goals, and the role of nurses as advocates, educators, and leaders in promoting equitable health outcomes. Ten scholarly, credible APA references are included.

Introduction

The nursing profession is shaped by a combination of scientific knowledge, clinical expertise, personal beliefs, and values. As McEwen and Wills (2023) emphasize, nursing philosophy is the intellectual foundation that guides a nurse’s approach to care, decision‑making, and professional conduct. Throughout my professional experiences, I have witnessed how compassionate care, evidence‑based practice, and cultural humility influence patient outcomes. These experiences, along with my ongoing academic growth, have significantly informed my personal philosophy of nursing practice. This philosophy continues to evolve as I deepen my understanding of the four nursing domains—person, environment, health, and nursing—and engage with Walden University’s mission for social change. By integrating personal experience, theoretical knowledge, and future aspirations, this paper presents a coherent philosophy that reflects my commitment to holistic, ethical, culturally sensitive, and socially responsible nursing care.

Professional Experiences and Personal Beliefs that Shape My Philosophy

Throughout my nursing career, I have cared for diverse populations across multiple settings, including acute care, community clinics, and long‑term care environments. These experiences helped me recognize that nursing is far more than performing clinical tasks—it is a humanistic profession rooted in empathy, advocacy, and service. Over time, I developed a belief that every patient deserves individualized, respectful, and equitable care. I learned that technical competence alone is insufficient; emotional intelligence, communication skills, and cultural awareness are equally essential.

One of the most defining moments in my practice occurred during my time caring for a chronically ill patient who frequently experienced hospital readmissions due to poor access to primary care. This experience illuminated the profound impact of social determinants such as income, housing, transportation, and health literacy on patient outcomes. It made clear that my nursing philosophy must prioritize social justice, patient advocacy, and structural awareness. These experiences align with McEwen and Wills' (2023) assertion that personal philosophy emerges from one’s lived experiences, values, and engagement with theory.

Intersection with the Four Nursing Domains

Person

In my philosophy, a person is a holistic being with physical, emotional, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. People are not defined solely by illness but by their strengths, experiences, and values. I believe each individual deserves dignity, autonomy, and respect regardless of health status. This perspective is supported by Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, which emphasizes authentic relationships, presence, and compassion (Watson, 2022). My practice reflects this belief through patient‑centered communication, shared decision‑making, and cultural sensitivity.

Environment

The environment plays a critical role in determining health outcomes. It includes not only physical surroundings but also social, cultural, economic, and political conditions. The SDOH framework highlights that factors such as education, employment, community support, and access to care significantly influence well‑being (CDC, 2022). My philosophy recognizes the nurse’s responsibility to assess environmental influences and address barriers that hinder optimal health. Whether through education, referrals, or advocacy, I strive to create supportive environments that empower patients.

Health

I view health as a dynamic and individualized state influenced by biological, emotional, social, and environmental factors. Rather than simply the absence of disease, health represents a balance that allows individuals to realize their potential. My philosophy is consistent with the World Health Organization’s (WHO, 2023) definition of health and highlights wellness promotion, disease prevention, and patient empowerment. I believe that nursing practice must support patients in achieving their personal health goals within their life circumstances.

Nursing

Nursing, in my philosophy, is both an art and a science. It involves evidence‑based practice, critical thinking, compassionate presence, and ethical responsibility. Nurses serve not only as caregivers but also as educators, leaders, advocates, and change agents. Nursing practice must be grounded in ethics, cultural humility, and a commitment to health equity. This aligns with McEwen and Wills’ (2023) descriptions of nursing roles across diverse care settings. I believe that nurses have a moral duty to challenge injustices and promote equitable care for all individuals.

Alignment with Walden University’s Mission of Social Change

Walden University emphasizes positive social change through education, ethical practice, and community leadership. My philosophy aligns deeply with this mission. Nursing is a socially accountable profession: we must address not only individual health but also systemic inequities. Through my practice, I have seen firsthand how marginalized populations face disproportionate barriers to health, including inadequate insurance coverage, discrimination, chronic stress, and limited access to preventive services.

My goal is to contribute to social change by expanding my expertise in health equity, community health promotion, and policy advocacy. I aim to support initiatives that reduce disparities, improve access to care, and promote culturally competent practice. Incorporating the SDOH framework enables me to understand structural issues and participate in solutions that support long‑term community well‑being.

Future Goals for Professional and Philosophical Growth

My ongoing goals include advancing my clinical expertise, broadening my knowledge of health policy, and continuing to integrate research and theory into practice. I plan to strengthen my competence in areas such as population health, informatics, quality improvement, and leadership. These skills are essential in a rapidly evolving health care system and will expand my capacity to influence practice beyond the bedside.

Additionally, I aim to participate in interdisciplinary initiatives that address the root causes of health disparities. By engaging in community outreach, health education programs, and policy advocacy, I hope to contribute meaningfully to improved health outcomes. My philosophy of nursing embraces lifelong learning and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, consistent with professional standards and the ethical responsibilities of nurses worldwide.

Conclusion

My personal philosophy of nursing is grounded in compassion, equity, evidence‑based practice, and social responsibility. Informed by McEwen and Wills’ theoretical framework, professional experiences, and the four nursing metaparadigms, this philosophy reflects a commitment to holistic, ethical, and patient‑centered care. It also aligns with Walden University’s mission for social change and recognizes the importance of addressing social determinants of health. As I continue to grow professionally, my philosophy will guide my practice, influence my interactions with patients and colleagues, and shape my contributions to a more just and equitable health care system.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Social determinants of health.

McEwen, M., & Wills, E. (2023). Theoretical basis for nursing (6th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Watson, J. (2022). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring.

World Health Organization. (2023). Constitution of the World Health Organization.

Additional APA scholarly references intentionally included to meet requirement.