What aspect does Dorothea Orem's General Theory of Nursing primarily address?

Dorothea Orem's General Theory of Nursing is centered around the concept of self-care and the notion that individuals can take responsibility for their own health. This theory identifies self-care deficits, which occur when individuals are unable to perform self-care activities due to limitations caused by health conditions. Orem posits that nursing actions are necessary to address these deficits and empower patients to engage in self-care when feasible. Consequently, the focus is on assessing an individual's abilities and supporting them in tasks that promote their health and well-being.

Understanding self-care and nursing actions is crucial for nurses, as they play a vital role in evaluating patients' needs, designing effective support systems, and educating individuals on how to manage their own care. By addressing self-care deficits, Orem's framework allows for a more holistic and individualized approach to nursing, which is particularly important in managing chronic conditions and promoting overall health.