Application of Orem's Self-Care Deficit Theory to the pediatric chronically ill population

The conditions under which children with long-term chronic health problems are cared for have changed dramatically in the past decade. These children are more often living longer and being cared for at home by their families and nursing supports. An effective tool allowing nurses to systematically assess, plan, implement, and evaluate the care needs of these children is a nursing theory. Orem's (1985) self- or dependent-care deficit theory is a useful basis from which the care of the chronically ill pediatric population can be planned. Attention is given to a caring relationship in which there is a dependent person in need of care and an individual who serves as that dependent person's agent of care. This article discusses several of the major concepts of the self- or dependent-care deficit theory and how it can be applied to guide clinical nursing practice aimed at meeting the care demands of the pediatric chronically ill population and their families.