Caring for the Vulnerable: Perspectives in Nursing Theory, Practice, and Research, Fifth Edition

By Judith S. Wendell, RN, PhD, FAAN

Overview

This comprehensive textbook, "Caring for the Vulnerable: Perspectives in Nursing Theory, Practice, and Research," in its fifth edition by Judith S. Wendell, explores the ethical and practical considerations of caring for vulnerable populations. It emphasizes the importance of nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and research in providing compassionate and effective care to those facing various challenges.

Key Themes

• Defining vulnerability and the diverse populations it encompasses
• Ethical principles and frameworks guiding care for the vulnerable
• Applying nursing theory to understand and address the needs of vulnerable populations
• Evidence-based practice in caring for the vulnerable
• Conducting research to improve care for vulnerable populations
• Culturally competent care and advocacy for vulnerable populations
• Addressing social determinants of health that impact vulnerability

Features

• Integrates perspectives from various nursing theories to enrich understanding
• Presents real-life case studies that illustrate the application of theory and research to practice
• Highlights the importance of interprofessional collaboration in caring for the vulnerable
• Includes chapters on emerging issues and future directions in caring for vulnerable populations
• Offers online resources with interactive exercises and additional content (may require purchase)

Target Audience

• Undergraduate and graduate nursing students
• Registered nurses working with vulnerable populations in various settings (hospitals, community health, long-term care)
• Nurse educators seeking to integrate vulnerability into nursing curricula
• Healthcare professionals interested in enhancing their care for vulnerable populations

Strengths

• Holistic approach that considers the ethical, theoretical, research, and practical aspects of caring
• Focus on diverse vulnerable populations and their unique needs
• Emphasis on social justice and advocacy for vulnerable individuals and communities
• Up-to-date content reflecting current trends and issues in vulnerability

Chapter Headlines (Examples may vary)

• Concepts of Vulnerability and Vulnerable Populations
• Ethical Frameworks for Caring for the Vulnerable
• Nursing Theories and Frameworks for Understanding Vulnerability
• Using Research to Improve Care for the Vulnerable
• Cultural Competence in Caring for the Vulnerable
• Communication and Collaboration in Vulnerable Care
• Vulnerable Children and Adolescents
• Vulnerable Adults and Older Adults
• Vulnerable Families and Communities
• The Future of Caring for the Vulnerable

Closing Paragraph

"Caring for the Vulnerable" equips nurses and other healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and values to provide compassionate and effective care to vulnerable populations. By fostering a deeper understanding of vulnerability and its complexities, the book empowers healthcare professionals to advocate for social justice and contribute to a more equitable healthcare system for all.