A comprehensive philosophy for nursing: the total approach

The political, social, economic, and technological forces being experienced within health care today demand that we apply creative models and philosophies for the delivery of nursing services. This paper describes the application of a "Quality Management Model" and presents a "Philosophy of Nursing Quality" that incorporates the elements of quality, cost, caring and nursing in a holistic manner. Application of this Model and Philosophy could provide nurse managers the guidance required to survive the turbulent 90's. In combination, they maximize the potential for success for both the health care recipient and care provider.