In the context of patient care, what critical element does Henderson's theory emphasize?

Henderson's theory underscores the significance of promoting patient independence and self-care, which is a foundational aspect of nursing practice. According to Henderson, nursing's primary purpose is to assist patients in gaining independence, especially in activities that support their health and well-being. The theory posits that when patients are empowered to manage their own health and perform essential tasks, they are often more engaged in their recovery and overall health outcomes can improve.

This focus on self-care aligns with the objective of enabling patients to take charge of their own health, ultimately fostering autonomy and self-management. By emphasizing this element, Henderson's theory encourages nurses to not only provide care but also to educate and support patients in developing skills necessary for their own care, thus enhancing their quality of life and promoting a holistic approach to health.

In contrast, while providing comfort through medication is important, it does not encapsulate the broader, holistic focus of Henderson's theory. The mention of solely addressing physical illnesses narrows the scope and neglects the emotional and psychosocial components of care that are essential in nursing practice. Lastly, the focus on comprehensive mental health treatment, while vital, does not encompass the entirety of patient care as envisioned by Henderson, which includes physical, emotional, and social health along with