Oncology patients' perceptions of quality nursing care

The purpose of this study was to analyze theoretically oncology patients' perceptions of the attributes and outcomes of quality nursing care. The grounded theory method as described by Strauss and Corbin (1998) was used. The purposive sample comprised 22 oncology patients being treated at an urban medical center; they were interviewed using a semistructured schedule. Eight attributes of quality nursing care emerged from the data. From the patient's perspective, excellent care was characterized by professional knowledge, continuity, attentiveness, coordination, partnership, individualization, rapport, and caring. In addition, two outcomes of quality care included increased fortitude and a sense of well-being with its constituents of trust, optimism, and authenticity. These findings can inform investigations of how oncology patients may experience "being well cared-for by nurses.