Roy’s Adaptation Model and Neuman’s Systems Model

These theories offer unique approaches to communicating with and treating patients. Studying the application of different approaches through cases is necessary to understand their effectiveness. Moreover, understanding ideas is essential for a more individualized approach to treating patients and achieving the best treatment outcomes.

Case Summary

After serving in Afghanistan, Sgt. Eddie Johns is an outpatient orthopedic clinic patient in the United States. He has a broken leg in several places and, according to doctors, has a traumatic brain injury, which the patient disagrees with. Sgt. Johns also has insomnia and can sleep for several hours only with alcohol.

He’s at home living with his mom, who can provide some care, and sees his girlfriend almost every day. However, the man is worried about his friend, who was more seriously injured and treated in another state. Eddie also has difficulty getting a job, as he is limited in movement due to a broken leg.

Roy’s Adaptation Model. Key Concepts

People as adaptive systems have four adaptative modes: physiological–physical, self-concept–group identity, role function, and interdependence. The environment is any circumstance, factor, or incentive affecting a person and group. Health is “(1) a process, (2) a state of being, and (3) becoming whole and integrated in a way that reflects individual and environment mutuality” (Smith & Parker, 2015, p. 159). The goal of nursing is to promote adaptation in all modes and thereby help achieve health.

Roy’s Adaptation Model. Adaptive modes

Physiological mode refers to the human physiological activity, for example, respiration, nutrition, and other processes. The self-concept mode depends on a person’s perception of self and directs behavior. Role function mode is determined by what position a person takes in society. Interdependence mode is a person’s relationship with loved ones.

Adaptive modes describe how a person interacts with the environment, responds to external stimuli, and adapts. When all adaptive modes work as a whole, people can satisfy their needs and will be healthier. For treatment, nurses evaluate behavior in all modes and the stimuli that affect them. They then set goals to achieve integrated adaptation – when all processes and functions in modes work as a whole to meet human needs. Interventions may include altering stimuli or strengthening a person’s coping capacity.