How is holistic nursing distinct from conventional nursing?

Holistic nursing is distinct from conventional nursing primarily because it emphasizes treating the patient as a whole, rather than focusing solely on isolated symptoms or specific health issues. This approach recognizes that health encompasses physical, emotional, spiritual, and social dimensions. By integrating these various aspects, holistic nursing fosters a deeper understanding of the patient’s experiences and promotes overall well-being.

Conventional nursing often adheres to a more biomedical model that primarily addresses the physical symptoms and medical conditions, which may overlook the underlying emotional or spiritual concerns that can affect a person's health. Holistic nursing seeks to bridge this gap by considering not just the illness but also the individual’s life context and personal resources in the healing process. This comprehensive perspective is essential in facilitating effective nurse-patient relationships and promoting health outcomes that align with the patient's values and preferences.