What is the focus of Virginia Henderson's nursing theory?

Virginia Henderson's nursing theory centers around the concept of independent functioning of individuals. She defined nursing as assisting individuals, sick or well, in performing activities that contribute to health or its recovery, or to a peaceful death, that they would perform unaided if they had the necessary strength, will, or knowledge. This means that the core focus of her theory emphasizes the essential role of nurses in promoting patients' autonomy in achieving their own health-related goals.

This approach is vital because it highlights the importance of empowering patients to take charge of their own health, thereby enhancing their independence. Henderson's theory delineates the nurse's role in helping patients fulfill their basic needs, which can range from physical care to emotional support, therefore enabling individuals to achieve a higher level of functioning.

Community health promotion, advocacy for patient rights, and investigation of health disparities are important aspects of nursing practice; however, they do not specifically encapsulate Henderson's theory. Her significant contribution was the emphasis on the individual's independence and the supportive role that nursing plays in facilitating this independence, making it the core of her theoretical perspective.