Basic Assumptions of The Neuman Systems Model
- Although each individual client or group as a client system is unique, each system is a composite of common known factors or innate of characteristics within a normal, given range of response contained within a basic structure.
- May known, unknown, and universal environmental stressors exist. Each differs in its potential for disturbing a clients’ usual stability level, or normal line of defense. The particular interrelationships of client variables-physiological, psychological, sociocultural, developmental, and spiritual-at any point in time can affect the degree to which a vliet is protected by the flexible line of defense against possible reaction to single stressor or a combination of stressors.
- Each individual client/client systems has evolved a normal range of responses to the environment that is referred to as a normal line of defense, or usual wellness/stability state,. The normal line of defense can be used as a standard from which to measure health deviation.
- When the cushioning, accordian-like effect of the flexible line of defense is no longer capable of protecting the client/client system against the environmental stressor, the stressor breaks through the normal line of defense. The interrelationships of variables-physiological, psychological, sociocultural, developmental, and spiritual-determine the nature and degree of system reaction or possible reaction to the stressor.
- The client, whether in a state of wellness or illness, is a dynamic composites of the interrelationships of variables-physiological, psychological, sociocultural, developmental, and spiritual. Wellness is on a continuum of available energy to support the systems in an optimal state of system stability.
- Implicit within each client system are internal resistance factors known as lines of resistance, which function to stabilize and return the client to the usual wellness state (normal line of defense) or possibly to a higher level of stability following an environmental stressor reaction.
- Primary prevention relates to general knowledge that is applied in client assessment and intervention in identification and reduction or mitigation of possible or actual risk factors associated with environmental stressors to prevent possible reaction. The goal of health promotion is included in primary prevention.
- Secondary prevention relates to symptomatology following a reaction to stressors, appropriate ranking of intervention priorities, and treatments to reduce their noxious effects.
- Tertiary prevention relates to the adjustive processes taking place as reconstitution begins and maintenance factors move the client back in a circular manner toward primary prevention.
- The client as a system is in dynamic, constant energy exchange with the environment.
Source:
Ann Marriner Tommey, Martha Raile Alligood. Nursing Theorists and Their Work. Mosby: 1998.
