The fundamentals of care framework from the perspective of rehabilitation nursing: A narrative review

This article examines the contribution of the fundamentals of care framework to nursing practice, specifically in rehabilitation nursing, within a context marked by the growing complexity of healthcare and an aging population. This phenomenon is linked to an increase in chronic diseases and situations of dependency, requiring individualized, person-centered care. The practice of nursing requires the development of scientific knowledge grounded in theoretical frameworks that support decision-making, quality, and safety of care, while respecting ethical principles such as the autonomy and dignity of the individual. In this regard, rehabilitation nursing plays a fundamental role in promoting the individual’s autonomy, functional recovery, and social reintegration. The study is based on a theoretical analysis supported by a review of the literature from various scientific databases. It highlights the importance of humanizing care and adopting a person-centered approach that values preferences, needs, and the active participation of the individual and their family in the care process. The Fundamentals of Care Framework serves as a structural model that integrates three interconnected dimensions: the therapeutic relationship, fundamental needs (physical, psychosocial, relational), and the care context. This model promotes a holistic and multidimensional approach, enabling the alignment of theory and practice, and improving patient satisfaction, health outcomes, and the efficiency of care. In rehabilitation nursing, it contributes to the planning of individualized interventions focused on restoring autonomy and empowering the patient. It can be concluded that this theoretical framework represents a significant contribution to continuous improvement of clinical practice; however, further research is needed to consolidate its application in rehabilitation nursing.