Florence Nightingale's Environmental Theory

Vocabulary terms and definitions from the lecture on Florence Nightingale's Environmental Theory and its application to the nursing process.

Environmental Theory

A nursing philosophy viewed as the manipulation of the physical environment (surroundings) as a major component of nursing care to place a patient in the best possible condition for nature to act.

Florence Nightingale

Born on May $12$, $1820$ in Florence, Italy, she was called to service by God and developed nursing theory based on experiences in the Crimean War and hospitals in Scutari, Turkey.

Noxious air (Effluvia)

Foul air that Nightingale believed would cause a person to remain sick; she emphasized that the source of the offensive smell must be removed to protect the client's health.

Health of Houses

A major concept related to the presence of pure air, pure water, efficient drainage, cleanliness, and light.

Intensive care psychosis

A state of confusion that can be triggered by a lack of environmental stimuli or lack of direct sunlight.

Variety

A critical aspect of recovery involving changes in color and form, such as brightly colored flowers, rotating paintings, or engaging in reading and needlework.

Personal Cleanliness

The principle that unwashed skin poisons the patient; it mandates that every nurse wash their hands frequently during the day.

Chattering hopes and advices

The act of giving false cheer or advice without fact, which Nightingale considered to be depressing and unhelpful to the sick.

Observation of the Sick

Considered the most important practical lesson for nurses; it is a means to obtain accurate information to ensure appropriate actions are taken.

Petty Management

Methods to assure that the care plan is carried out even when the nurse is not present, requiring well-managed houses and hospitals.

Environment (Metaparadigm)

Includes physical components like ventilation, warmth, and light, as well as psychological components like avoiding chattering hopes and providing variety.

Person (Metaparadigm)

A dynamic and complex being comprising physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual components who is the recipient of care.

Health (Metaparadigm)

The state of being well and having the power to use well every power we have; it encompasses prevention and health promotion.

Nursing (Metaparadigm)

A spiritual calling intended to assist nature to repair the patient through trained observation and manipulation of the environment.

Assessment (Nursing Process)

Involves two essential behaviors: asking the client what is needed or wanted and using precise, specific observations.

Nursing Diagnosis (Nursing Process)

Conclusions based on data regarding the client’s response to the environment rather than a focus on the environmental problem itself.

Implementation (Nursing Process)

Taking action to modify all factors of the environment that affect the client.

Evaluation (Nursing Process)

Assessing the effect of environmental changes on the client’s ability to regain health, primarily using observation as the data collection method.