Caring within nursing education: a metasynthesis

During the 1990s qualitative research studies on caring within schools of nursing have been conducted. What generalizations can be made from these qualitative research studies that can effectively be used to promote the development of a caring community in nursing education in the 21st century? A metasynthesis of 14 qualitative research studies on caring among faculty and students was conducted. Noblit and Hare's metaethnographic approach was used. The metasynthesis revealed five metaphors or themes that permeated caring in nursing education. These metaphors centered on reciprocal connecting that consisted of presencing, sharing, supporting, competence, and uplifting effects of caring. Implications of this metasynthesis for nursing educators are addressed.