Incoming nursing students' perceptions of their caring behaviors

What are the caring attitudes and abilities of incoming nursing students? This phenomenologic study used the Colaizzi method to analyze descriptions of caring interactions written by 15 incoming nursing students on orientation day. It indicates that students have definite attitudes and values about caring and established patterns of caring behaviors. Educators need to start where the learners are-namely, recognizing and valuing their inherent caring behaviors. Using these threads, nurse educators can begin to weave the fabric of professional caring.