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Fundamentals of Nursing

Key Terms

Fundamentals of NursingKey Terms

Key Terms

amygdala
the emotional center of the brain
aromatherapy
the use of essential oils via inhalation or diluted application to the skin
essential oil
an oil extracted from the flower, bark, leaves, or fruit of plants
holistic care
a care approach that considers the whole entity, encompassing the physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of an individual patient
hydrotherapy
a holistic treatment that uses water to treat pain, swelling, and sore muscles
medical power of attorney
a person deemed in charge of medical decisions when the patient is unable or unwilling
parish nursing (also, faith community nursing)
a specialty that focuses on the care of people in a faith community, church, or parish
patient-centered care (PCC)
the healthcare delivery model that aims to ensure the person is an equal partner in their health care; a framework for providing care to individuals
person-centered care
a focus on disease management with personal, social, and religious beliefs of a person incorporated into the care
physiological
relating to the functions of the body
progressive relaxation
a holistic technique in which each part of the body is contracted and relaxed
self-actualization
the realization of one’s potential
shared decision-making
the practice of empowering patients to make healthcare decisions and state their needs and limitations
thoughtful practice
care that reflects compassion and incorporates empathy for a patient’s unique situation
transparency
in health care, allows the patient to see the information about their care, such as electronic health records and laboratory results the patient can access
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