Introduction
This essay explores how an understanding of biopsychosocial factors enhances a nurse’s comprehension of health and illness, particularly in the context of prioritising people in adult nursing. The biopsychosocial model, which integrates biological, psychological, and social elements, offers a holistic framework for healthcare delivery. As a nursing student, I aim to demonstrate how this model informs clinical practice by enabling person-centred care. The discussion will cover the individual components of the model, their relevance to nursing, and their practical application in understanding patient needs. By examining these factors, the essay will underline their importance in fostering compassionate and effective care.
Understanding the Biopsychosocial Model
The biopsychosocial model, first proposed by Engel (1977), challenges the traditional biomedical approach by acknowledging that health and illness are influenced by more than just physiological factors. Biological aspects, such as genetics or disease pathology, are critical; for instance, a patient with diabetes requires management of blood sugar levels. However, psychological factors, including stress or mental health conditions like anxiety, often exacerbate physical symptoms. Furthermore, social determinants—such as income, education, or family support—can significantly impact recovery and wellbeing (Wade and Halligan, 2017). As a nurse, recognising these interconnected dimensions ensures a comprehensive assessment of a patient’s condition, moving beyond mere symptom treatment to address underlying causes.
Application in Prioritising People
In adult nursing, prioritising people means placing the patient at the heart of care, a principle reinforced by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code (2018). Knowledge of biopsychosocial factors allows nurses to tailor interventions to individual needs. For example, a patient recovering from surgery (biological) may struggle with anxiety about returning to work (psychological) and lack adequate support at home (social). A nurse informed by this model might coordinate with mental health services and community resources to address these issues, ensuring holistic support. This approach not only improves patient outcomes but also builds trust, as patients feel understood on multiple levels. Indeed, research suggests that such integrated care enhances patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans (Babatunde et al., 2017).
Challenges and Limitations
While the biopsychosocial model is invaluable, its application in nursing can be challenging. Time constraints in busy healthcare settings often limit the depth of psychological or social assessments. Additionally, not all nurses are trained to address complex mental health needs, which may hinder effective intervention (Wade and Halligan, 2017). Despite these limitations, even a basic understanding of the model can guide nurses to identify when to refer patients to specialists, ensuring that care remains comprehensive. Arguably, ongoing education and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential to overcoming these barriers and embedding this approach in daily practice.
Conclusion
In summary, knowledge of biopsychosocial factors significantly enriches a nurse’s understanding of health and illness by promoting a holistic view of patient care. It enables nurses to prioritise people by addressing biological, psychological, and social needs, thereby enhancing the quality of interventions. While challenges exist, such as time constraints and training gaps, the model’s value in fostering person-centred care is undeniable. As a nursing student, I recognise its importance in shaping compassionate practice and believe that integrating this framework into healthcare systems is crucial for improving patient outcomes and wellbeing.
References
- Babatunde, F., MacDermid, J., and MacIntyre, N. (2017) Characteristics of therapeutic alliance in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and occupational therapy practice: a scoping review of the literature. BMC Health Services Research, 17(1), 375.
- Engel, G.L. (1977) The need for a new medical model: a challenge for biomedicine. Science, 196(4286), 129-136.
- Nursing and Midwifery Council (2018) The Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates. Nursing and Midwifery Council.
- Wade, D.T. and Halligan, P.W. (2017) The biopsychosocial model of illness: a model whose time has come. Clinical Rehabilitation, 31(8), 995-1004.
