An evaluation of Henderson's nursing needs model and how it can be adapted for use in veterinary nursing

Abstract

Henderson's nursing needs model is a nursing model of care that is used in human nursing. It is based on 14 fundamental needs that are said to involve every aspect of the patient. Henderson believes that if nursing interventions use these 14 fundamental needs as a framework, this will aid the patient in becoming independent again, which is the overall aim. However, as Henderson's model was intended for human use, there are aspects that are not appropriate for use in veterinary patients. Therefore, this article illustrates how it can be adapted for use in animals, using the nursing process as a structure.