1. What is holistic nursing care?
The American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) explains holistic nursing as "an attitude, a
philosophy, and a way of being." Holistic nursing care is not simply a specific procedure for
providing patient care. Instead, it is a specialized way of thinking.
Purpose
According to the AHNA, holistic nursing involves "all nursing practice that has healing the whole
person as its goal." Holistic nursing care includes caring for a patient's body, mind and spirit.
Core Values
The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing explains that the standards of holistic nursing care are based
on five core values: holistic philosophy and education; holistic ethics, theories and research; holistic
nurse self-care; holistic communication, therapeutic environment and cultural competence; and
holistic caring process.
Patient Care
When providing patient care, holistic nurses respect the patient's subjective feelings about health,
beliefs and values. Holistic nursing care focuses on educating, treating and guiding patients toward
optimum health.
Self-Care
Even when not providing patient care, holistic nurses are encouraged to practice reflection within
their own lives. Holistic nurses are required to integrate self-responsibility, self-care, reflection and
spirituality in their own lives to develop a greater awareness of their connection to other individuals
and their environment.
Certification
Holistic nursing certification programs are offered by the American Holistic Nurses' Certification
Corp. (AHNCC). After passing the educational and training requirements, nurses would receive the
title of certified holistic nurse.
Source:
American Holistic Nurses Association: What Is Holistic Nursing?
The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing: Standards for Holistic Nursing Practice
New York College of Health Professions: Holistic Nursing
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