What does "holistic care" refer to in nursing practice?

Holistic care in nursing practice refers to the approach that considers the whole individual rather than focusing on specific ailments or purely physical symptoms. This perspective recognizes that patients have emotional, social, and spiritual needs, in addition to their physical health requirements. Nurses who practice holistic care assess and address these various aspects to promote overall well-being and improve health outcomes.

By integrating emotional and spiritual support along with physical treatment, nurses can provide more comprehensive care that acknowledges the interconnectedness of different dimensions of a patient's health. This approach not only treats the symptoms of a disease but also considers how that disease affects the individual's overall quality of life, promoting healing and wellness on multiple levels.