Caring for the Vulnerable: Perspectives in Nursing Theory, Practice, and Research » (2nd Edition)

Within an expanding field of study in both undergraduate and graduate nursing curricula, Caring for the Vulnerable explores vulnerability from the perspective of individuals, groups, communities and populations, and addresses the implication of that vulnerability for nurses, nursing, and nursing care.

Doody Review Services

Reviewer:Vicki Ann Moss, DNSc, MS, BSN, RN(University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh)
Description:The concept of vulnerability is explored through the perspective of individuals, groups, communities, and populations as it pertains to nurses, nursing, and nursing care.
Purpose:The ultimate goal of this book is to provide nurses with a theoretical, research-based framework to provide culturally competent care.
Audience:According to the editor, the book was originally intended as a primary text for an undergraduate or graduate course on vulnerable populations. She also sees it as a supplemental text for undergraduate community health courses or for family nurse practitioner programs. Since most all of the research studies in the text are qualitative, she suggests that it also might be used as a supplement for a qualitative research course. Another suggested use would be a course in international nursing since the book includes works of nurses in many countries.
Features:This book is divided into six units: concepts related to vulnerability; application of nursing theories; research with vulnerable populations; practice issues related to vulnerable populations; teaching/learning experiences for students and practitioners; policy implications. In Unit 2, nine nursing theories are presented with their application to vulnerable populations. Each is followed by a case study. Examples of diversity include papers about African-Americans, Finns, Aboriginals, Japanese, and Nicaraguans as well as rural Appalachian women, hospitalized older adults, women with infertility, and transgender health. The last unit provides ideas on ways nurses can get involved as advocates.
Assessment:The editor and contributors have very impressive credentials. Mary de Chesnay is Professor and Endowed Chair, Vulnerable Populations, Seattle University College of Nursing. The contributors are from the United States as well as Turkey, Nicaragua, Australia, Finland, Taiwan, Israel, New Zealand, Japan, Sweden, and Hong Kong. This is a comprehensive book that looks at vulnerability from many aspects. It is straightforward and easy to read. Chapters are short and include many references. It would be a valuable addition for the practitioner, educator, student, or researcher.