In a wholly compensatory nursing model, the patient is considered to be:

In a wholly compensatory nursing model, the patient is viewed as dependent on the nurse for all therapeutic care. This model emphasizes a scenario where the nurse takes on the primary responsibility for patient care, essentially compensating for the patient's inability to meet their own healthcare needs. This approach is particularly relevant for patients who are unable to participate in their own care due to various factors such as illness, injury, or significant health limitations.

In this model, the nurse actively provides care, makes decisions related to the patient's health, and implements therapeutic interventions without expecting the patient to contribute to their own care. This approach contrasts with other models that recognize varying degrees of patient independence or encourage self-management. Recognizing the patient’s dependence allows the nurse to plan and deliver comprehensive care that fully addresses the individual’s health challenges. This engaging framework highlights the therapeutic relationship where the nurse's role is fundamental to achieving positive health outcomes for the patient.