Nurse partners in chronic illness care: patients' perceptions and their implications for nursing leadership

To examine how patients with multiple chronic conditions perceive the role of nurses who function in a care management role in a primary healthcare setting.

Thirteen patients between the ages of 56 and 88 years were recruited from an outpatient family practice clinic. All participants had type 2 diabetes, plus at least 1 chronic comorbid condition.

Data were collected using a semistructured interview protocol and analyzed using an iterative process. Interviews were coded independently by the core team and emerging themes were identified through weekly discussion. Discrepancies in coding and interpretation were resolved by reviewing transcripts and field notes as a group until consensus was reached. The core team met twice with advisory members to review conceptual constructs.

Three themes emerged: (1) an overwhelming positive regard for the nurse partner, both as a person and a professional; (2) appreciation for the availability of the nurse partner; and (3) a perceived partnership with healthcare providers. Results provide evidence that the role is appreciated and that nurses provide care that is commensurate with patients' expectations and desires for healthcare. Future research must demonstrate the efficiency and sustainability of care coordination services for patients with chronic illness.