Aims: To give a short historical survey of patient classification and its motives, to analyse patient classification and especially the instrument, The Oulu Patient Classification more closely from a caring science perspective.
Background: A survey of topical literature and research on patient classification show that economic and administrative justifications predominate and the caring science connection is weak, almost non-existent.
Origins of information: Topical literature and research on patient classification and the instrument, The Oulu Patient Classification.
Data analysis: Topical literature and research were evaluated from a caring science perspective in accordance with Eriksson's theory of caring and the basic concept of man as an entity of body, soul and spirit.
Key issues: Patient classification is used in staff planning and is also justified from the viewpoint of content, that is, as a method of guaranteeing good quality in the care of patients and as an expression of the prevalent caring ideology. The concept of man is reduced in current literature and research on patient classification. The Oulu Patient Classification is based on a humanistic view of man, but man's spiritual and existential needs do not emerge clearly from the manual of the instrument.
Conclusions: It is essential for patient classification to start from a caring perspective. Correctly dimensioned staffing based on patient classification is a prerequisite for good care. This should be combined with a caring culture that considers the whole complexity of man in order to make good care possible.