The Use of Nursing Theory to Support Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Education in Nursing Curricula

Abstract

Background: Inclusive sexual and reproductive health care (SRH) content is limited in nursing curricula, resulting in nurses who lack education to provide complex SRH services to marginalized patients, especially sexual and gender minorities (SGM). Method: The 10 Caritas Processes, the framework of Watson's Theory of Caring, were evaluated for being integral components of SRH. This theory is used to advocate for SGM-inclusive SRH content in nursing curricula. Results: The interpretation of Caritas Processes 2, 4, and 7 provide theoretical support for SGM-inclusive SRH content. Specific strategies to modify and improve nursing curricula are described. Conclusion: There is a need to incorporate inclusive SRH education into nursing curricula to normalize evidence-based SRH for diverse, marginalized patient populations. By emphasizing the caring intentions necessary for nursing professionals, Watson's Theory of Caring is an appropriate framework to guide the development of SGM-relevant SRH content in nursing education. [ J Nurs Educ . 2023;62(2):69–74.]