What is the primary goal of health promotion in holistic nursing?

The primary goal of health promotion in holistic nursing is to empower individuals for informed health choices. This approach emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy and active participation in their own health care. Holistic nursing recognizes that health is not solely the absence of disease but encompasses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. By empowering individuals, holistic nurses support patients in understanding their health conditions, the effects of lifestyle choices, and the role of prevention and wellness strategies.

This goal aligns with the core principles of holistic nursing, which prioritize the whole person in the healing process—not just focusing on symptoms or medical interventions. Empowerment involves educating patients about their health, encouraging them to take charge of their own health decisions, and providing them with the resources necessary to make informed choices. This approach fosters a stronger partnership between the patient and nurse, leading to more effective health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.

Other approaches, such as providing comprehensive medical interventions, focusing solely on medications, or limiting patient involvement in decision-making, can undermine the patient-centered philosophy of holistic nursing. These alternatives do not adequately support the patient's role in their own health journey, which the holistic model fundamentally seeks to enhance.