Dependence Level of Stroke Patients through Nurse-Led Interventions Based on Virginia Henderson Nursing Theory

Abstract

Background: Stroke patients often experience dependency in daily activities, impacting their quality of life. Virginia Henderson's nursing theory emphasizes the importance of patient independence and self-care. Nurse-led interventions based on this theory can potentially enhance patient outcomes. The interventions focus on promoting patient self-care and independence in activities of daily living. By applying Henderson's theory, nurses can tailor care to meet the unique needs of stroke patients.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate stroke patients’ levels of dependence, before and after implementing nurse-led strategies based on Virginia Henderson’s fourteen components of basic human needs.

Methodology: A quasi-experimental study design was utilized among 56 stroke patients admitted to selected hospitals. A structured assessment tool based on Henderson’s theory was used to evaluate dependence levels across biological, psychological, moral, and social domains. The intervention included individualized nursing care plans, education, and skill training sessions implemented over a specified period. Data were analyzed using means, standard deviation, and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, a non-parametric method, was used to compare the Pre and Post intervention Dependence level of stroke patients.

Results: The results revealed that a statistically significant reduction in dependency levels among stroke patients after nurse-led interventions based on Virginia Henderson's nursing theory (p < 0.05). The proportion of patients with high and medium dependency level with mean score 2.42 ± 1.04 and 3.12 ± 1.16 decreased to medium and low dependency level while mean score 3.69 ± 0.44 and 4.18 ± 0.42 respectively. These findings suggest that nurse-led interventions are effective in promoting self-care and reducing dependency in stroke patients. Significant changes were observed in post-intervention dependency levels across all four dependency domains. Notable gains were seen in hygiene, mobility, and communication skills.

Conclusion: Interventions led by nurses based on Virginia Henderson's Nursing Theory substantially decreased dependence levels among stroke patients the importance of theory-based nursing care is highlighted in fostering recovery, self-care, and holistic rehabilitation