Patients rely heavily on nurses to coach and support them to undergo many transitions in life (Schumacher, 1994). For example, illness, recovery, pregnancy, old age are among the changes that patients pass through. In this context, understanding and recognizing transitions are key in the healthcare sector. This is because transitions promote high-quality interventions that are critical to improving the healthcare sector (Schumacher, 1994). To shed more light regarding the importance of transitions, this paper reviews transition theory and evaluates how CSU SON has incorporated it in the development of its curriculum. Besides, it compares the writer’s philosophy with the philosophy.
Nursing theory developed by Dr. Afaf Meleleis: Transition theory
Murphy (1990) notes that transition is critical to nursing practice, and it should be encouraged at all levels. The transitional period of volatility is encountered by the nurse-client and in most cases, they are triggered by development, situation or health illness changes (Murphy, 1990). In this view, it is important for nurses to be alert for changes. Transition connotes movement from one state to another (Murphy, 1990). The theory examines the relationships between properties and dimensions of change on one side to the nursing therapeutic environment, client, and health on the other part. According to Schumacher (1994), transition theory is characterized by common properties, which include processes, direction, and a change in fundamental life span. These elements are important in the nursing practice, especially where evidence-based practice is required. According to the theory, changes that occur at the personal level are identities, roles, relationships, capabilities as well as patterns of behavior that constitute transitions. This theory has also provided transition at the organizational level and includes aspects, such as structure and functions. Evidently, the theory is grounded on the conditions that may influence the quality if the transition experience and the impacts (Schumacher, 1994). The conditions are meanings, expectations, the level of knowledge and skills, the surrounding and level of planning. This is in addition to emotional and physical well-being. Schumacher (1994) argues that one can tell if there is a successful transition when there is well-being, role masterly as well as the welfare of the relationships that exist.
How CSU SON has applied transition theory in its curriculum model
The university’s curriculum is tailored toward transforming the healthcare system. It aims at preparing the nurses for disseminating their role in the best way possible considering the changes that may take place within the healthcare sectors. All conditions that influence change, such as community, families, and patients are catered for in the curriculum. The curriculum encourages nurses to be innovators in the healthcare sector and dispense their duty irrespective of the transitions. There is an emphasis on observational skills, advanced knowledge, interventions, and compassion, which will help to ensure that transition is successful. Besides, the curriculum enables nursing students to explore crucial issues in the healthcare sector that could permeate them to practice to the full of their education across the globe if changed. The conditions, such as the expectation of the nurses, level of knowledge, the meaning of their services, and the environment are included in the curriculum. The CSU SON curriculum prepares the nursing students for changes in their roles, relationships in the workplace, and patterns of the behavior just as the transition theorist advocates (Murphy, 1990). For example, nurses are expected to relate effectively with their client because the curriculum recommends that patients’ interest should be prioritized. This is achieved through the utilization of professional ethics, which are outlined in the curriculum.
My personal philosophy in relation to the theory
It is vital to say that transition theory is the foundation of my nursing practice. I posit that there are many changes that can take place within the healthcare sector, and I should be prepared to adapt to them. Transition approach has outlined the environment and the relationships that exist as fundamental in the provision of healthcare services (Schumacher, 1994). This is similar to my practice because I perform better when my working environment is conducive and when I am at peace with everyone around. Additionally, I have realized that patients develop trust when I maintain a good relationship with them. In fact, some of my clients open up and share confidential information that has a significant impact on their health after creating a trusting relationship. In fact, I believe that active relationship is central to the therapeutic process just as Schumacher (1994) asserts. According to Murphy (1990), nurse’s behavior is vital to transition at the individual level. In this view, I have been relating well with my client in the facility where I work, something that has made them like me. Thus, it is explicit that my philosophy is grounded in the transition theory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the future of advancing nursing knowledge depends on the extent to which nurses are able to recognize transitions in the healthcare sector. They should be ready to adapt to the changes and build relationships founded on respect and mutual understanding among themselves and patients. The nursing skills should be utilized effectively for the benefit of the patients. Therefore, I recommend that the universities should develop their curricula using the theory of transition.
