Which two individuals are known for contemporary definitions of nursing?

The correct answer highlights the contributions of Hildegard Peplau and Dorothea Orem to contemporary definitions of nursing. Peplau is renowned for her work in interpersonal relationships and the importance of communication in nursing practice, particularly through her theory of interpersonal relations, which emphasizes the nurse-patient relationship as a foundation for care.

Dorothea Orem is well-known for her Self-Care Deficit Theory, which defines nursing as a response to the patient's inability to care for themselves. Her work delineates nursing's role in promoting self-care, which has become a significant aspect of modern nursing practice. Together, these theorists shaped the understanding of nursing as a profession that not only addresses physical health but also emphasizes mental and emotional well-being through effective interpersonal interactions and self-care strategies.

This synthesis of theories provided a comprehensive framework that both guides nursing education and practice today.