Define Holistic Nursing

According to the American Holistic Nurses Association, holistic nursing is a professional sub-specialty that emphasizes self-care in practitioners, includes integrative therapies and supports the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

History

Considered one of the pioneers of holistic nursing, Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) delivered care based on wellness, unity and an understanding of the relationship between humans and their environments.

Function

Performed in a variety of settings, holistic nursing incorporates complementary and alternative techniques and conventional healing with the goal of alleviating underlying mental, emotional and spiritual causes of distress.

Types

Holistic nurses range from traditional caregivers to nurses who specialize in modalities like acupuncture, reflexology, laughter therapy, Reiki energy work and animal-assisted healing.

Considerations

Complementary therapies utilized by holistic nurses may not be covered by insurance or Medicare; therefore, clients may be responsible for out-of-pocket expenses.

Benefits

Holistic nurses respect clients as holistic beings, and the plan of care involves disease prevention, health promotion and attention to the biopsychosocial needs of the patient.

Potential

Backed by national associations and state boards, holistic nurses can advocate for alternative treatment reimbursement, participate in evidence-based research and provide community education.

References

• American Holistic Nurses Association

Resources

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine