Neuman Systems Model

The Neuman Systems Model was developed by Betty Neuman in an effort to teach an introductory nursing course to students. The model’s focus is on the wellness of the patient, known as the client, relative to environmental stressors and the reactions to those stressors (Fawcett, 2001). The main goal of the model is stress reduction. The model explains how humans are interrelated products built from physiological, psychological, sociocultural, developmental and spiritual variables and relationships between these variables determine the client’s reaction to stressors (Smith, 1989). Neuman’s theory describes the nurse’s role is to focus on the total person with the goal of preserving or recouping client stability. This can be achieved through interventions focused on reducing internal and external stressors that affect the client’s maximum functioning ability (Knight, 1990).

The process by which nurses implement the Neuman Systems Theory involves identifying client perceptions and collaborating with the client through all steps of the process while formulating appropriate nursing diagnoses, goals and outcomes (Knight, 1990). The following is a client profile and case study of a 48-year old woman known as Carol. Carol was admitted to the hospital with the diagnosis of major depressive disorder. She had disclosed thoughts of suicide with a plan of overdosing on medication due to severe depression. This is her first inpatient admission for depression and has previously been treated outpatient by a psychiatrist after she received a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis three years prior. The nurse begins by assessing the interrelationship of the influencing variables. Carol’s reaction to stressors was compromised by her recent inabi...

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...This helps to enhance a sense of control, self-esteem and achievement.

The Betty Neuman Systems Model has been applied to the case of Carol, a woman diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis who has experienced depression with suicidal ideation. Carol experienced several stressors resulting in dysfunctions interfering with her daily life. Her responses to stressors threatened her self-concept and perception of her life roles. Through assessment and evaluation of Carol and her family’s perceptions to stressors, goals were created and resources for coping were explored and implemented. These interventions were to educate, prevent future stressors and to maintain strengths. Neuman’s model aligns with today’s health care visions of a preventative, wellness oriented philosophy and focuses on the wholistic aspect of care and involves the client in that care (Haggart, 1993).