Final answer:
Virginia Henderson is renowned for her nursing theory that emphasizes observations of patient behavior, patient confirmation, and effective care based on patient needs, aimed at increasing patient independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nursing theorist best known for her emphasis on inferences based on observation of patient behavior, confirmation by the patient, and effective care based on identified patient needs is Virginia Henderson. Henderson's nursing theory focuses on the importance of increasing a patient's independence to promote their continued healing process after hospitalization. Her approach to nursing involves the principle that nurses should assist patients with those activities they would perform unaided if they had the necessary strength, will, or knowledge, and to do so in a way that helps the patient gain independence as rapidly as possible.