Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which concept is central to Dorothea Orem's self-care theory?

1. Collaboration with healthcare providers

2. The importance of nursing interventions

3. The ability of individuals to perform self-care

4. The role of technology in health care

The correct answer is: The ability of individuals to perform self-care

Dorothea Orem's self-care theory emphasizes the fundamental idea that individuals have the capacity and responsibility to care for themselves to maintain their health and well-being. This theory is built on the premise that humans can engage in self-care activities to promote their own health, prevent illness, and manage chronic conditions. Orem identifies the importance of self-care as essential to individuals' autonomy and overall health management. The emphasis on the ability of individuals to perform self-care addresses the need for patients to be informed and empowered regarding their health. This approach fosters independence and contributes to better health outcomes, as individuals who actively participate in their own care tend to have a greater sense of control and satisfaction in managing their health. While collaboration with healthcare providers, nursing interventions, and the role of technology can all be important aspects of healthcare, they are secondary to the core concept of self-care in Orem's theory. The focus remains on the individuals’ abilities and their inherent right to engage in self-care practices as a means to improve health outcomes.