Application of Kolcaba’s theory of comfort in nursing practice

Abstract

In 21st Century nursing is the bridge that holds a patient's  health care process together. The important task for nurses is to determine patients’ needs and to satisfy them in a timely manner and a good quality. The comfort of a patient is a fundamental need that determine functionality, quality of life and health care outcomes of individual. The comfort theory developed by Katharine Kolcaba provides the essential assumptions and theoretical underpinings that might be helpful dealing with clinical, educational, scientific and managerial issues. Aim: the aim of this study was to analyze the application of Kolcaba’s Theory of Comfort for nursing research, education, practice and leadership. Methods: a theoretical-reflective essay conducted in a dialectical process between relevant literature, theoretical framework and reflection. Results: Kolcaba's Theory of Comfort has been successfully applied in nursing research, education, nursing practice and leadership. The majority of studies with Comfort Theory were concerned with the effects of interventions on the patient’s level of comfort. Conclusion: Kolcaba's Theory of Comfort is totally applicable in nursing research, education, clinical nursing practice and leadership initiatives in the health care organisations. By utilising Comfort theory in health care institutions in Kazakstan nurses can create a positive atmosphere for the comfort of each patient assuring respect for his present and past, for his life values, traditions and beliefs. The principles of theory might be integrated into undergraduate and postgraduate nursing education programs.