Psychology in nursing: An inherent part of practice and care

摘要

The benefit offered by a nurse's supportive care cannot be underestimated and the mind-body connection is well established (Barker, 2007). Not only can a patient's thoughts, feelings and attitudes positively or negatively affect the trajectory of their illness (Vimont, 2008), but they can also affect behaviours, such as a patient's willingness to adhere to their treatment regimen, or to begin a new health-promotion intervention. Nurses play a significant role in helping to change the way patients think about their conditions and themselves, as well as to change their behaviours in the best interest of their health. Fulfilling this duty of care requires the ability to listen to patients, understand their feelings and motivations, and offer the appropriate support (Nursing and Midwifery Council, 2014).