Holistic nurses consider all aspects of a patient’s wellbeing in treating their health, from their mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Holistic nurses strive to facilitate healing processes within an atmosphere of peace for their patients.
Nurses interested in holistic nursing may pursue either a bachelor’s or master’s degree, as well as postmaster certificates in this specialty.
Job Description
Holistic nurse practitioners work across many settings, such as acute care hospitals, private practices, universities and wellness centers. Their focus extends beyond physical wellbeing – for instance, stress reduction strategies or referral to alternative or complementary treatments could all fall under their purview.
As nurses may incorporate holistic techniques into their practice, it is crucial that clear boundaries and expectations are set with clients so that these therapies complement rather than replace traditional medical care. Furthermore, any nurse wishing to market themselves as holistic healthcare practitioners should carry professional liability insurance.
Holistic nurses typically specialize in aromatherapy or acupuncture, offering counseling on stress management as well as referrals for mental, emotional, or spiritual care. Some colleagues remain skeptical of these practices’ efficacy; therefore nurses who utilize holistic practices must be able to demonstrate the scientific basis behind their methods as well as proof that they possess proper training in these fields – plus possess an unencumbered nursing license!
Education Requirements
Becoming a holistic nurse practitioner requires at minimum a bachelor’s degree in nursing; however, many RNs also undertake additional training in holistic practices like yoga and meditation. Most holistic nurse practitioners are registered nursing professionals (RNs) driven to offer comprehensive care to their patients.
Holistic nursing’s philosophy and principles can be traced back to Florence Nightingale, who believed health care should go beyond simply treating physical ailments. A holistic nurse focuses on healing all aspects of an individual, such as their mind, body and spirit – and may utilize various alternative healing methods such as aromatherapy or acupuncture as part of traditional medical treatments. Furthermore, these nurses practice self-care themselves and encourage their patients to do the same.
Holistic nurses offer more than natural healing techniques; they also assist patients in changing diet and stress reduction exercises. Holistic nurses believe people are spiritual beings and treat them accordingly; therefore they strive to establish an emotional and spiritual bond with each patient they care for.
Holistic nurses can be found in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to private practices and wellness classes. According to “Beginnings,” holistic nurses provide advice for maintaining total-body wellness as well as facilitate wellness coaching sessions that combine fitness training, nutrition and other holistic interventions.
The American Holistic Nurses Association is a professional organization that promotes holistic nursing and advocates for its development and expansion. Through continuing education courses, networking events, resources, mentorship programs and much more, AHAN offers support and guidance to its members.
Holistic nursing is an emerging practice and rapidly growing in recognition. However, nurses should clearly define their scope of practice to ensure holistic therapies complement rather than replace traditional medical treatment options. Furthermore, license renewal and compliance with state/national regulations is of utmost importance for holistic practitioners.
Salary
Holistic nurses practice holistic nursing across many settings. These settings include hospitals, health centers, home healthcare services and universities and colleges as well as running private wellness practices where in addition to traditional nursing duties they also teach relaxation techniques as well as provide information about complementary and alternative health therapies for their patients.
Stress relief strategies, dietary adjustments and exercise routines may all be provided as advice by a psychologist. They can also offer support when dealing with emotional trauma or grief by referring patients to spiritual or mental health professionals as needed. Finally, they can assist patients who live with chronic medical conditions by helping manage pain using nonpharmacological treatments.
Holistic nursing offers many advantages, from flexible hours and the chance to make a difference in people’s lives to making connections between holistic therapies and traditional medical concerns. But the field has its own challenges as some patients and colleagues may remain wary. Furthermore, holistic consultations may take longer than ones focused on traditional medical concerns.
Though anyone can incorporate holistic healing practices into their practice, nurses who do so must ensure they are properly trained and licensed in order to avoid malpractice claims. It is also essential that they clearly define their scope of practice so their clients understand that these therapies supplement rather than replace conventional medical care.
Are You Seeking Holistic Nursing as a Profession? Consider enrolling in an Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program through Western Governor’s University (WGU)! Their RN-to-BSN online program for registered nurses with either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) diploma or diploma/ADN allows participants to complete this fast-tracked degree program within two years and make themselves eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination after graduating – so speak to an enrollment counselor today to get started today!
Work Environment
Holistic nurses can work in various settings. Many own their own private practices while others treat patients in hospitals. No matter the setting, it’s crucial that holistic nurses clearly define their scope of practice within state regulations in order to avoid becoming part of an estimated 5,000 complaints a year regarding practicing outside this limit. It may be wise to join a holistic nursing association or professional organization such as NAHONA so as to keep abreast of changes to guidelines and practices as they occur; it will make this journey rewarding if one can stay true to themselves and find their niche!
