Anthroposophic nursing is grounded in traditional
nursing practice, but broadens it to encompass new kinds of
treatment, taking the view that the patient is a "whole human
being" with a body, soul and spirit.
The unique needs of each individual patient are
paramount, and while the anthroposophic nurse has a strongly
nurturing and supportive role to play, their aim is to slowly help
the patient to gain independence again and to be able to take
increasing responsibility in their recovery and healing
process.
Anthroposophic nursing recognises that a central
contributing factor in a patient's recovery process is how a
treatment or nursing procedure is carried out, in addition to the
medical accuracy. Therefore a training in anthroposophic nursing
includes the need for self-development and cultivation of the sense
for understanding the unique and differing needs of people.
Traditional nursing procedures are fundamental to
anthroposophic nursing practice. These are extended by a treatment
programme of external treatments and the administering of
medicines. The treatments and medicines are normally prescribed and
managed by the anthroposophic doctor, but are monitored in
collaboration with the nurses' feedback.
External applications include baths in prescribed
substances, "rhythmic" medicated body rubs using the
Hauschka/Wegman method and the employment of packs and compresses
to specific parts of the body. These methods use oils, essences,
tinctures and ointments, mainly of plant, mineral or metal origin
prepared by anthroposophic pharmaceutical procedures. They aim to
stimulate or boost the vital functions of the body and can affect
breathing, circulation, digestion, metabolism and the generation of
body warmth.