Holistic assessments in nursing provide a unique quality of care to the individual patient. Holism in the provision of care includes assessments obtaining data about the physiological, psychological, sociological, spiritual, developmental, cultural and environmental aspects. It is imperative that the nurse conducting these assessments adopts methods in the nursing process that reflects the standards outlined in Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council National Competency Standards for the Registered Nurse to ensure the health and wellbeing of the patient is maximized and maintained throughout the time health care is received. Nursing processes are directed at restoring overall harmony for the patient therefore an understanding of the …show more content…

The holistic assessment of a patients cultural aspects enable the best suitable approach in the provision of care, upholding the patients’ rights, addressing their needs and minimizing misunderstandings.

Spiritual needs are often emphasized in times of ill health or other health related crisis therefore it is imperative that spirituality of the patient is understood in order to maximize provision of care. Kozier & Erb (2012: 1154) define spirituality as a way in which a person lives their life, bound in beliefs and values and how their own meaning or perception is viewed. A holistic assessment will determine the spiritual needs of the patient to enable the nurse to respond appropriately to the patient whilst adhering to ANMC, competency 9.5, ‘Facilitates a physical, psychosocial, cultural and spiritual environment that promotes individual/group safety and security’ (ANMC 2006, p. 12). Narayanasamy (2009:886-890), describes spirituality as a fundamental aspect in holistic assessment as it can promote the patients mind, body and spirit as well as determining there state of mind in relation to spiritual distress such as loss of hope. Spirituality is an important part of the healing process as it can provide comfort, reduce suffering and assist in the physical and mental healing of the patient (Kozier & Erb 2012: 1154). Kozier & Erb