Humanistic Nursing

by Josephine G. Paterson

"Humanistic Nursing" by Josephine G. Paterson and Loretta T. Zderad is a meta-theoretical publication focused on the philosophy and practice of nursing, written in the late 20th century. This work aims to articulate the principles of Humanistic Nursing Theory and encourages nurses to enhance their personal growth while positively influencing their nursing communities. The text serves as a foundational exploration of the interpersonal and existential aspects of nursing practice, emphasizing the significance of human connection and dialogue. The opening of the book lays a robust groundwork for understanding the dialectical nature of nursing. It introduces the concept that nursing is fundamentally a humanistic endeavor, characterized by intersubjective relationships between nurses and patients. This early section discusses the challenges faced by nurses in maintaining their identity and sense of purpose in a changing healthcare landscape, while also highlighting the value of authentic communication and mutual growth. Ultimately, it establishes that nursing is not merely a technical profession but a deeply relational practice rooted in human experience, calling attention to the importance of nurses reflecting on their own lived experiences to enrich their practice.