Nursing Jean Watson’s Human Caring Theory

Jean Watson’s Human Caring Theory has become entrenched in all aspects of nursing practice, inseparable from the art and science of nursing. Watson’s philosophy of caring evolved into the science of caring, as evidence-based practice can support the efficacy of carative factors. However, Watson understood also that caring was a moral imperative of nursing care that extends beyond the traditional medical model toward a new transpersonal paradigm. To promote this paradigm in a concrete manner, Watson proposed what she termed Carative Factors, or the Processes of Caritas, which inform the science of caring. These ten factors include the following. First, practicing loving-kindness means developing a “caring consciousness,” (Watson Caring Science Institute, 2010, p. 2). Second, the nurse is authentically present in the moment with the patient. Third, caring requires one to cultivate a spiritual practice with the goal of transcending the ego. Fourth, it is necessary to develop authentic relationships built on trust and genuine caring. Fifth, the nurse accepts both positive and negative emotions and supports emotional expression. Sixth, art and creativity are processes of caritas, and the nurse uses creativity constructively. Seventh, teaching and learning are ongoing bi-directional processes. Eighth, caring requires a healing environment that promotes peace and beauty. Ninth, basic needs are attended to within the context of the whole person. Tenth, the nurse is open to miracles, the divine, and to the mysteries that await the soul after its passage from this life.