Application of Orem's Self‐Care Deficit Theory and Standardized Nursing Languages in a Case Study of a Woman with Diabetes

PURPOSE: This paper aims to illustrate the process of theory-based nursing practice by presenting a case study of a clinical nurse specialist's assessment and care of a woman with type 2 diabetes. DESIGN: Orem's self-care deficit theory and standardized nursing language, NANDA, NIC (Nursing Interventions Classification), and NOC (Nursing Outcomes Classification), guided assessment and the identification of outcomes and interventions related to the client's management of diabetes. FINDINGS: Theory-based nursing care and standardized nursing language enhanced the client's ability to self-manage the chronic illness: diabetes. CONCLUSION: Nursing theory and standardized nursing language enhance communication among nurses and support a client's ability to self-manage a chronic illness.