Vulnerability Within A Nursing Clinical Practice. A Qualitative Review.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Qualitative Health Research
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Vulnerability is a core aspect of the human condition, significantly impacting nursing practice.
• It is experienced by both patients and healthcare professionals, influenced by relationships, institutions, and ethics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the phenomenon of vulnerability within nursing clinical practice.
• To examine patient and nurse perspectives on vulnerability as reflected in research literature.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative literature search was conducted across eight bibliographic databases.
• Twenty-nine papers were identified and analyzed using qualitative content analysis, inspired by Graneheim, Lundman, and Lindgren.

Main Results:

• Sociopolitical factors influence vulnerability, affecting care needs and perceptions.
• Patients experience vulnerability through compromised autonomy and lack of individualized care, leading to diminished dignity.
• Nurses' vulnerability arises from personal suffering and work-related factors, potentially causing emotional distancing.

Conclusions:

• Vulnerability is a complex, multifaceted issue shaped by personal, relational, and sociopolitical elements.
• Patients' vulnerability is linked to dignity and individuality; nurses face emotional and ethical challenges.
• Vulnerability can be reframed as a strength, enhancing ethical sensitivity and nurse-patient relationships.