From theory to practice: Orem's self-care nursing model and ambulatory care

Delivery of patient care based on theoretical principles can promote successful practice. Orem's Self-Care Nursing Theory offers direction for the practitioner in the ambulatory surgery setting. In this model, the nurse assists clients by acting for, teaching, guiding, supporting, and providing a developmental environment. Levels of care range from performing total care to educating the patient and family. Promoting self-care as soon as feasible is the goal of the ambulatory care plan. Consequently, self-care deficits created during surgery and anesthesia must be overcome so that the patient is dismissed from the ambulatory setting with the ability to meet self-care needs.