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The significance of Maslow's hierarchy of needs in nursing lies in its utility as a framework for prioritizing patient care. This theory outlines a five-tier model of human needs, typically represented as a pyramid, where the most basic needs, like physiological requirements (food, water, warmth, rest), must be met before individuals can address higher-level needs such as safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.

In nursing practice, understanding and applying this hierarchy help nurses assess and prioritize patient care effectively. For instance, if a patient is in pain or is not receiving adequate nutrition, addressing these needs takes precedence over fostering emotional support or promoting self-esteem. By using this model, nurses can ensure that care is both holistic and patient-centered, leading to better patient outcomes. This approach enhances the nurse's ability to create individualized care plans that reflect each patient's immediate and broader needs, ultimately improving the quality of care delivered.

Other options do not accurately represent the primary significance of Maslow's hierarchy. Ignoring certain needs can compromise patient safety and well-being, evaluating a nurse's performance is outside the scope of Maslow's theory, and the model is relevant to all aspects of patient care, not just communication with family members.