• Henderson’s definition of nursing in functional terms: "The unique function of the nurse is to assist the individual, sick or well, in the performance of those activities contributing to health or its recovery (or to peaceful death) that he would perform unaided if he had the necessary strength, will or knowledge. And to do this in such a way as to help him gain independence as rapidly as possible."
• She sorted out the nursing activities into 14 components, basing them on the 14 basic human needs.
• She also described the nurse's role in 3 categories:
o Substitutive (doing for the person). The nurse temporarily assists an individual who lacks the necessary strength, will and knowledge to satisfy the 14 basic needs.
o Supplementary (helping the person). The nurse assists and supports the individual in life activities and the attainment of independence.
o Complementary (working with the person). The nurse works with the individual in making plans to meet his need focusing on his strength will or knowledge.
• The main goal of nurses is to help the person become as independent as possible in achieving his/her needs to make him/her “complete” “whole", or "independent."
• The nurse is expected to carry out physician’s therapeutic plan as a member of the medical team but she is also expected to make her own individualized plan of care.
• For those with developmental needs like for those very young and very old, special planning of care is needed, basically because of physical, psychological and social aspects.