What does the term "holistic care" mean in nursing?

The term "holistic care" in nursing refers to addressing a patient's physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. This approach recognizes that a person's health is influenced not just by physical well-being but also by mental health, social interactions, and spiritual beliefs. By considering all these dimensions, nurses can provide comprehensive care that promotes overall health and well-being.

Focusing on only physical care would neglect vital aspects of a patient's experience and can lead to less effective outcomes. Concentrating solely on mental health ignores important physical and social factors that can also affect a patient's well-being. Providing care based exclusively on scientific evidence can overlook the individual unique needs of the patient, as holistic care emphasizes the importance of personalizing treatment plans to the whole person, not just their symptoms or medical conditions.