Self-care deficit nursing theory

Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory (SCDNT), developed by Dorothea Orem in the 1950s, is a widely recognized framework in the field of nursing. This theory is foundational in nursing education and practice, emphasizing the role of individuals in their own care and the importance of nursing intervention to meet self-care demands. The theory is structured around three interrelated theories: the Theory of Self-Care, the Theory of Self-Care Deficit, and the Theory of Nursing Systems.

Theory of Self-Care

The Theory of Self-Care posits that self-care is a learned, goal-oriented activity directed towards the self to maintain health and well-being. According to Orem, self-care includes various activities undertaken on one's own behalf, such as personal hygiene, nutrition, and seeking medical services. Orem identified several self-care requisites—universal, developmental, and health deviation requisites—that individuals must address to maintain their health.

Theory of Self-Care Deficit

The Theory of Self-Care Deficit delineates when nursing is needed. Nursing is required when an individual is unable to meet their self-care requisites due to limitations, thus resulting in a self-care deficit. Orem identifies that it is the role of the nurse to assess the deficit and to help the individual or their family to perform self-care actions.

Theory of Nursing Systems

The Theory of Nursing Systems explains how nurses can help individuals. Orem describes three systems of nursing to meet the patient's self-care requisites: wholly compensatory, partly compensatory, and supportive-educative. The wholly compensatory system involves the nurse undertaking all the necessary care activities when the individual is unable to do so. The partly compensatory system is a combination of nurse and patient care activities. Lastly, the supportive-educative system is where the nurse acts as a consultant or educator, helping the individual to meet their own self-care needs.

Application in Nursing Practice

SCDNT has been applied in various settings, including hospital care, community health, and rehabilitation. By assessing an individual's ability to perform self-care and identifying potential deficits, nurses can develop a personalized care plan that encourages the patient's independence and improves their quality of life.

Criticism and Evolution

While SCDNT has been influential in nursing, it has faced criticism for its complexity and the assumption that all individuals have the ability to perform self-care. Despite these criticisms, the theory has evolved and been refined over time, with researchers and practitioners exploring its application in diverse populations and settings.

Conclusion

The Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of nursing in supporting individuals' self-care activities. It highlights the importance of patient autonomy and the tailored approach needed in nursing practice to address individual self-care deficits.