Abstract
This article presents the theoretical application of Parse's Man-Living-Health theory. The main objective is to offer an interpretation of and to clarify the theory's main principles, themes and concepts in the Swedish language. A hypothetical, and often occurring situation in psychiatric nursing practice has been chosen as an example of how the themes – meaning, rythmicity and co-transcendence could conceivably be applied as a guide for nursing action. It is well known that the patient with the diagnosis, manic depressive disorder, often finds Lithium treatment meaningless. The use of Parse theory may guide the nurse in helping the patient to express his values and beliefs in order to enhance quality of life. One of the emphases and perspectives of the theory is that the patient is the expert in knowing his own needs. The nurse should not impose her own values or make choices for the patient. In order to apply Parse theory, presupposes an understanding of the basic concepts in existentialism and phenomenology as well as a shared psychiatric ideology in the practical setting.
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