Application of Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory in the Case Study of Mrs. C.

 

Application of Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory in the Case Study of Mrs. C.

Introduction

Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory emphasizes the importance of comfort in nursing care, categorizing comfort into three types: relief, ease, and transcendence. This theory is particularly applicable in palliative care settings where patients often experience chronic pain and discomfort. In the case study of Mrs. C., an 87-year-old patient suffering from bone cancer metastasis, her comfort needs can be identified and addressed through Kolcaba’s Taxonomic Structure of Comfort Needs. By evaluating her physical, emotional, social, and environmental comfort needs, healthcare providers can deliver holistic care that enhances her quality of life.

Narrative Explaining the Comfort Grid

In the case of Mrs. C., it is essential to recognize the various contexts of comfort she may be experiencing. Given her diagnosis and advanced age, her comfort needs are multifaceted, encompassing physical relief from pain, emotional support for anxiety and depression, social interaction with her daughter and caregivers, and environmental modifications to enhance her living conditions. By applying Kolcaba’s Taxonomic Structure of Comfort Needs, we can organize these needs into a grid format that outlines specific areas of focus for nursing interventions.

Taxonomic Comfort Grid for Mrs. C.

Comfort Context Comfort Needs Type of Comfort Provided Interventions
Physical Relief from pain due to bone metastasis Relief Medication management (pain control), physical therapy
Assistance with mobility and activities of daily living (ADLs) Ease Physical assistance, mobility aids
Emotional Anxiety related to illness and prognosis Ease Counseling, emotional support, relaxation techniques
Feelings of loneliness or isolation Transcendence Encouragement of family visits and regular communication
Social Desire for interaction with family and friends Ease Facilitation of family gatherings, involvement in social activities
Need for companionship to combat feelings of loneliness Transcendence Connecting her with support groups or community services
Environmental Comfort in home environment Ease Home modifications (e.g., eliminating tripping hazards)
Desire for a peaceful and familiar environment Transcendence Creating a calming atmosphere (lighting, decor)

Conclusion

Applying Kolcaba’s Comfort Theory to the case study of Mrs. C. allows for a comprehensive understanding of her comfort needs across various contexts. By utilizing the taxonomic comfort grid, healthcare providers can identify specific areas where interventions can be made to enhance her overall comfort. Addressing both her physical pain and emotional well-being, alongside fostering social connections and optimizing her environment, will provide a holistic approach to care that prioritizes Mrs. C.’s comfort during this challenging time.

References

Alligood, M. R. (2021). Nursing Theorists and Their Work (10th ed.). Elsevier.