Roper–Logan–Tierney model of nursing

Roper-Logan-Tierney Model of Nursing

The Roper-Logan-Tierney Model of Nursing is a theory of nursing care that is based on the activities of daily living (ADLs). It was developed in 1980 by Nancy Roper, Winifred W. Logan, and Alison J. Tierney, three British nurse theorists. This model is widely used in the United Kingdom and has been adopted in various parts of the world for nursing education, practice, and research. The model focuses on the individual's ability to perform twelve activities of daily living, which are considered essential for maintaining life, health, and well-being.

Background

The Roper-Logan-Tierney model is grounded in a holistic approach to nursing, emphasizing the importance of considering the biological, psychological, sociocultural, environmental, and politicoeconomic aspects of an individual's life. It is influenced by the work of Virginia Henderson, another nurse theorist, but it expands on Henderson's work by incorporating a lifespan perspective, recognizing that individuals' needs and abilities change over time.

The Twelve Activities of Daily Living

The twelve activities of daily living (ADLs) that form the core of the Roper-Logan-Tierney model are:

1. Maintaining a safe environment
2. Communicating
3. Breathing
4. Eating and drinking
5. Eliminating
6. Personal cleansing and dressing
7. Controlling body temperature
8. Mobilizing
9. Working and playing
10. Expressing sexuality
11. Sleeping
12. Dying

Each activity is assessed in terms of the individual's ability to perform it independently, and nursing care is tailored to support or enhance this ability. The model encourages nurses to view patients holistically and to consider how various factors, including illness, age, and environmental conditions, might affect their ability to engage in these activities.

Application in Nursing Practice

In nursing practice, the Roper-Logan-Tierney model is used to assess patients, plan care, and evaluate outcomes. The assessment phase involves gathering information about the patient's abilities and challenges related to the twelve ADLs, as well as understanding the factors that influence these activities. Care planning then involves setting goals and identifying nursing interventions that can support the patient in achieving these goals. Finally, the evaluation phase assesses the effectiveness of the nursing care in meeting the patient's needs.

Criticism and Adaptation

While the Roper-Logan-Tierney model has been influential in nursing education and practice, it has also faced criticism. Some critics argue that the model is too focused on physical activities and does not adequately address psychological, social, and spiritual needs. Others believe that the model's emphasis on independence may not be appropriate for all patient populations, such as those with chronic disabilities or terminal illnesses.

Despite these criticisms, the model has been adapted and modified to better meet the needs of diverse patient populations and healthcare settings. It remains a valuable tool for nursing professionals, providing a structured framework for assessing and addressing the holistic needs of patients.

See Also

• Nursing theory
• Activities of daily living
• Holistic nursing
• Virginia Henderson