The essence of professional care articulated by Virginia Henderson centers on assisting individuals, sick or well, in performing activities that contribute to health, recovery, or a peaceful death. This assistance is provided when the individual lacks the necessary strength, will, or knowledge to perform these activities independently. Encompassed within this perspective are fourteen fundamental needs ranging from basic physiological requirements like breathing and eating to more complex psychosocial aspects such as learning and engaging with one’s environment.
The enduring influence of this conceptualization stems from its holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing independence and individualized attention. Its value lies in providing a structured framework for nurses to assess patient needs comprehensively and develop tailored care plans. Historically, this definition has served as a cornerstone in nursing education and practice, guiding the development of patient-centered models of care and influencing the professional identity of nurses globally.
