NSG-4000 Galen College of Nursing – Describe a nursing theory and explain how it relates to your topic. (Madeleine Leininger Theory of cultural care diversity)

Describe a nursing theory and explain how it relates to your topic. (Madeleine Leininger Theory of cultural care diversity)

Discuss how a nursing theory can be used in research and clinical practice.

Describe one ethical principle discussed in the course textbook and explain the role of the nurse in protecting human research participants based on this principle.

ANSWER

Madeleine Leininger’s Theory of Cultural Care Diversity: Enhancing Nursing Practice and Research

Introduction

Nursing theories provide a framework for understanding and implementing effective nursing care. One prominent nursing theory is Madeleine Leininger’s Theory of Cultural Care Diversity, which emphasizes the importance of cultural competence and the impact of culture on health and wellness. In this essay, we will explore Leininger’s theory, its relevance to contemporary healthcare, and how nursing theories can guide research and clinical practice. Furthermore, we will discuss an ethical principle from the course textbook and examine the nurse’s role in safeguarding human research participants based on this principle.

Madeleine Leininger’s Theory of Cultural Care Diversity

 Leininger’s Theory of Cultural Care Diversity, also known as transcultural nursing, is a comprehensive framework that acknowledges the significance of culture in nursing care. Leininger proposed that nurses should be culturally competent to provide care that is congruent with the beliefs, values, and practices of diverse individuals and communities (McFarland & Wehbe-Alamah, 2019). The theory suggests that when healthcare providers understand and respect cultural differences, they can better meet the unique healthcare needs of their patients.

The relevance of Leininger’s theory in contemporary healthcare is evident in our increasingly diverse societies. Patients from various cultural backgrounds seek healthcare services, bringing with them diverse beliefs, customs, and traditions. Understanding and incorporating these cultural factors into nursing practice can foster better patient outcomes, improve patient satisfaction, and promote health equity.

Application in Research and Clinical Practice

Nursing theories, including Leininger’s Theory of Cultural Care Diversity, provide a solid foundation for both research and clinical practice in healthcare. In research, nursing theories guide the development of research questions, study design, data collection methods, and data analysis. By incorporating a theoretical framework, researchers can explore the cultural dimensions of health and healthcare, identify gaps in knowledge, and design interventions that are culturally sensitive and appropriate.

In clinical practice, Leininger’s theory offers nurses a guide for delivering patient-centered care. Nurses can assess cultural factors that may influence a patient’s health beliefs, communication styles, and treatment preferences. By acknowledging and respecting these cultural influences, nurses can establish a therapeutic relationship, tailor care plans to individual needs, and promote positive health outcomes (Leininger, 2007). Furthermore, Leininger’s theory encourages nurses to advocate for cultural competence within healthcare institutions, promoting policies and practices that address the unique needs of diverse populations.

Ethical Principle

Protecting Human Research Participants One important ethical principle in research is autonomy, which refers to an individual’s right to self-determination and the ability to make decisions about their own well-being. Nurses play a crucial role in protecting the rights and welfare of human research participants, ensuring that they provide informed consent and that their autonomy is respected throughout the research process.

Nurses act as patient advocates, ensuring that participants understand the purpose, risks, and benefits of the study before providing informed consent. They educate participants about their rights, confidentiality, and the voluntary nature of their participation. Additionally, nurses monitor the well-being of research participants, assessing any potential physical or psychological harm and promptly addressing concerns (Nsiah et al., 2019). They also ensure that participants have the opportunity to withdraw from the study at any time without consequence.

Conclusion

 Madeleine Leininger’s Theory of Cultural Care Diversity highlights the importance of cultural competence in nursing practice. By understanding and incorporating cultural factors, nurses can deliver patient-centered care that respects and responds to the unique needs of diverse populations. Nursing theories, including Leininger’s theory, provide a framework for research and clinical practice, guiding researchers in exploring cultural dimensions and assisting nurses in providing culturally sensitive care. Furthermore, nurses play a pivotal role in protecting human research participants, ensuring their autonomy and well-being throughout the research process. By integrating nursing theories and ethical principles into practice, nurses can advance healthcare and promote the well-being of individuals and communities.

Reference

Leininger, M. (2007). Theoretical Questions and Concerns: Response From the Theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality Perspective. Nursing Science Quarterly, 20(1), 9–13. https://doi.org/10.1177/0894318406296784 

McFarland, M. R., & Wehbe-Alamah, H. (2019c). Leininger’s Theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality: An Overview With a Historical Retrospective and a View Toward the Future. Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 30(6), 540–557. https://doi.org/10.1177/1043659619867134 

Nsiah, C., Siakwa, M., & Ninnoni, J. P. K. (2019). Registered Nurses’ description of patient advocacy in the clinical setting. Nursing Open, 6(3), 1124–1132. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.307