“Theories on needs” and “stress-coping theory” in nursing

Abstract

This study introduces “theories on needs and the stress-coping theory” in the discipline of psychology, and how these theories are used in nursing. Patients are placed in such a situation that makes them difficult to meet the needs on their own because of various restrictions, and it prevents them from keeping their life as a human being. Nursing focuses on needs of the patients with illness, and provides support that meet their basic needs. This study introduces the Henderson's theory on needs, chosen from various nursing theories focusing on needs, and to state direction for nursing practice based on it. Patients feel various stress resulted from illness. Continuing stress threatens them physically and psychologically, which results not only in delaying recovery from illness, but also in critical condition physically and psychologically. Nursing provides support that help them to cope with stress effectively. This study introduces Lazarus's stress-coping theory and states direction for nursing practice based on it.