A Holistic Framework for Nursing Care

Abstract

A holistic nursing framework to be used in the rehabilitation care of the myocardial infarction patient is discussed. Concepts of the framework include interplay of body-mind-spirit, negative life stress, coping modes, and their relationship to illness. Social support in the form of natural caring, together with one's own coping capacity, are usually enough to maintain health, integrity, control, and wholeness. But professional caring is needed when illness is perceived or symptoms develop. A holistic nursing intervention plan for the post-MI patient is proposed. The aim of the article is to facilitate the use of the approach in research and in practice.