Learn more about nursing philosophy, including the historical foundations that have led to modern nursing philosophy, see how to craft your personal nursing statement, and learn some of the core nursing values that Marquette promotes in its students through a second degree direct entry MSN program.
As health care professionals who advocate for and care for patients, nurses are essential in making a difference on a personal level. Modern nursing practice is rooted in values and ethics as much as it is in clinical knowledge. A personal nursing philosophy defines the principles that guide how a nurse communicates and delivers care, and it can keep you grounded throughout the day-to-day realities of nursing.
Marquette University’s Second Degree Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing program shapes future nursing leaders through a rigorous curriculum and an emphasis on developing strong nursing values influenced by our Jesuit tradition. Explore how nursing philosophy has evolved, learn how to create a personal nursing statement that defines your own outlook, and see how the core nursing values we emphasize with students can form the foundation for a satisfying and life-changing career.
The Historical Foundations of Nursing Philosophy
Understanding the origins of modern nursing philosophy can help us better grasp how nursing has evolved to its modern state and help nurses better define their own personal philosophy of nursing. While some specifics have changed, many of the fundamentals have remained constant.
Florence Nightingale’s Influence
Commonly regarded as the founder of modern nursing practice, Florence Nightingale did perhaps more than any other individual in professionalizing nursing and advancing the cause of nursing education.
Nightingale’s Environmental Theory emerged from her observation of the squalid conditions of British military hospitals during the Crimean War, in which she treated patients from 1854 to 1856 while leading a force of 38 volunteer nurses and 15 Catholic nuns.
Treatment of wounds and mitigation of infectious diseases were limited during this time, and the mortality rate from disease was nearly four times greater than wounds taken in battle. Science had not yet advanced to the point where practitioners had direct knowledge of bacterial or viral infections, but Nightingale knew the contagious effect of cramped and unsanitary conditions on the spread of disease.
She led reforms in sanitary conditions and more personalized treatment, which contributed to lowering the mortality rate of the war by 20% by March 1855. Nightingale established the foundation of modern nursing practice, spreading her belief that holistic and sanitary care helped prevent disease and encouraged recovery. The major elements of the care she delivered under this philosophy included:
- Ventilation and warmth
- Light
- Cleanliness
- Sanitary bedding
- Personal hygiene
- Wholesome food
- Offering hope and advice
- Observation
While her methods vary from those of today’s practicing RNs, her holistic outlook and clear-minded view of patient needs form a template for a personal nursing philosophy that persists in spirit to this day.
Understanding Personal Philosophy of Nursing
As a nurse, you will likely encounter challenging scenarios that test your previously held assumptions. A personal nursing philosophy helps you stay true to yourself by holding onto the behaviors and values you deem most important. When you need to make a decision about patient care or find yourself at a career crossroads, your personal nursing philosophy can help see you through.
At its core, a personal nursing philosophy builds on the code of ethics for nurses and describes your beliefs about:
- Nursing’s role in health care
- The nurse-patient relationship
- The key nursing values you hold most dear
- Ethical standards when delivering care
It is at the core of why you chose to pursue a nursing career and can help you stay true to yourself by holding onto the behaviors and values you deem most important.
Crafting Your Personal Nursing Statement
After learning more about the background behind personal nursing statements, writing one for yourself can be a powerful moment that crystalizes your own outlook. Some programs will require you to write one as part of the admissions process, but writing one even if you don’t need to is a valuable exercise. Reflect on questions like:
- What drew me to nursing?
- How do I approach the human side of delivering care?
- What values do I find most important in a health care setting?
- What kind of nurse do I want to be?
Learn more about the requirements for an MSN degree.
If writing a personal nursing philosophy as part of a nursing program admissions process like Marquette’s, stay in communication with an admissions adviser to make sure you include everything else you need, like your academic background or health care volunteering experience. You can find resources and templates online to shape this statement further. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for proofreading.
Core Values in Nursing Philosophy
Everyone’s outlook will vary slightly, but there are some common threads that unite most nurses trying to deliver ethical care. Our DE-MSN program emphasizes a holistic view of care beyond symptoms alone while ingraining other key values.
Empathy
Empathy is at the core of nursing, and nurses are often the ones giving patients and loved ones both good and bad news. Nurses spend more one-on-one time with patients than other health care professionals, and empathy is central to relationship-building. Empathetic care can help reduce patient anxiety and improve the confidence they have in their care.
Communication
Nurses do not work alone. In fact, they often lead communication among the patient care team and collaborate with each person involved in patient care. Nurses can provide insight into a patient’s outlook or state of mind, and strong communication can help prevent errors that might have a negative impact on patient outcomes.
Embracing Innovation
The nursing field, and health care more generally, is constantly evolving. New treatments and technologies are always emerging, so providing the best care possible means keeping in touch with advancements. Prioritize continuing education, and you can become an innovator like Florence, leading the charge toward improving care within your organization.
See how you can build your nursing leadership skills and set yourself up for a rewarding career.
Evolving Nature of Nursing Philosophy
No one stays static in their beliefs and priorities over their lifetime, and this is natural. Growth and evolution are healthy, and staying mindful enough to amend your personal nursing philosophy can help you stay centered in your values. See some of the things that form a foundation for developing your outlook over time.
Adapting to New Insights and Career Developments
Your personal nursing philosophy may shift based on what you observe as a practicing RN as you gain experience and take on new professional roles. Certain qualities may become more or less valuable to you, and you should take time to reflect on your values and priorities. Even without the need to communicate your nursing philosophy, it can keep you grounded and ready to act in a way that is consistent with your values.
The Role of Advanced Nursing Education
Advanced nursing education, like an MSN degree or beyond, gives a firm foundation that helps ground your perspective through greater understanding at the start of your nursing career. Marquette’s holistic outlook is exemplified every day through our thought-leading faculty.
In-person care experiences delivered through clinical courses give our students a greater understanding of what nursing means before they graduate and attain licensure through the NCLEX-RN. Always be ready to shift your outlook on nursing based on the experiences you gather, as your philosophy of nursing should feel personal and unique.
Start on Your Nursing Career Journey with Marquette
After reflecting on what nursing means to you, maybe you feel that this career path is right for you. Marquette’s DE-MSN program can be completed in five or eight semesters and blends online or in-person coursework with clinical simulation and clinical courses. If you’re ready to take on the challenge and graduate ready to attain licensure and make an impact, contact an admissions adviser today to take your next step.