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The space of togetherness--a caring encounter
Gunilla Holopainen1, Anne Kasén, Lisbet Nyström
1Department of Social Sciences, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland; Vaasa Hospital District, Vaasa, Finland.
Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences
|October 9, 2012
Summary
This study explores the meaning of nurse-patient encounters, identifying presence, recognition, availability, and mutuality as key elements. Realizing these fosters a mutual existence crucial for effective nursing care.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Philosophy of Care
- Phenomenology
Background:
- The concept of 'encounter' in nursing literature lacks deep conceptual clarity.
- Existing discussions often overlook the fundamental meaning of genuine human interaction in care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To achieve a profound understanding of the concept of 'encounter' within the nursing context.
- To explore the philosophical underpinnings of meaningful human interaction in nursing.
Main Methods:
- A hermeneutic approach was employed.
- Analysis of philosophical texts by Martin Buber and Gabriel Marcel.
Main Results:
- Essential prerequisites for a nursing encounter include presence, recognition, availability, and mutuality.
- These prerequisites create a 'space of togetherness' and mutual existence.
- Caring is realized when these conditions are met, allowing life's mystery to emerge.
Conclusions:
- Genuine encounters are fundamental to realizing authentic nursing care.
- Cultivating these encounters presents a significant challenge within contemporary nursing practice.
- Philosophical insights can deepen the understanding and practice of nursing encounters.
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