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Perceptions of Empathic and Compassionate Healthcare Encounters: An International Exploratory Qualitative Descriptive
Katie J Tunks Leach1, Mary-Ellen Barker2, Caz Hales3
1Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia.
Patients and their families value empathic and compassionate healthcare, highlighting the importance of communication, clinician attitudes, and thoughtful gestures. These elements significantly impact patient experiences and health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare communication
- Patient experience
- Compassionate care
Background:
- Empathy and compassion are crucial for person-centered care.
- Evidence links empathic care to better patient outcomes, satisfaction, and safety.
- Limited research exists on patients' experiences of empathic and compassionate care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patients' and their significant others' perceptions of empathic and compassionate healthcare encounters.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive international survey.
- Recruited participants reporting personal experiences with healthcare professionals.
- Data analyzed using Framework Analysis.
Main Results:
- 84 participants from diverse regions reported experiences.
- Four themes emerged: communication, clinician attitudes, thoughtful gestures, and enduring impact.
- Positive and negative examples of care were identified.
Conclusions:
- Holistic practitioner communication across bio-psycho-social-spiritual domains is key.
- Empathic and compassionate care profoundly impacts patient experiences and health outcomes.
- Focusing on these elements enhances healthcare provider influence.
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