Nursing Care Process for a Patient with Depression: Application of Orem's Self-Care Deficit Theory

Abstract

Introduction: Depression is a common mental disorder that affects mood, daily functioning, and quality of life, representing a major public health concern. Objective: To develop a nursing care process for a patient with depression based on Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory. Method: A case study was conducted using the nursing care process. The assessment was based on Orem’s universal self-care requisites, identifying and prioritizing nursing diagnoses according to the NANDA-I taxonomy. Nursing interventions were planned using the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), and outcomes were evaluated using the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC). Results: Self-care deficits were identified in relation to nutrition, the balance between activity and rest, social interaction, and human functioning. The priority nursing diagnoses included hopelessness, risk for suicidal behavior, low self-esteem, impaired mood regulation, and risk for self-mutilation. The implemented interventions promoted emotional regulation, self-care, and effective coping. Clinical improvement was observed, including continued participation in psychotherapy, engagement in regular physical activity, and no need for pharmacological treatment. Conclusion: The nursing care process based on Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Theory enabled the delivery of individualized nursing care and achieved favorable clinical outcomes, demonstrating the usefulness of the NANDA-I, NIC, and NOC taxonomies in the comprehensive care of individuals with depression.