[Patient information and education--a challenge for nurses]

The aims of this article are to refer to some main results of a field study of patient experience of information in the hospital. Further to discuss in which way the information to the patient is a challenge for the nurses. Data was gathered from interviews with 12 adult patients in medical and surgical wards in one hospital in Norway. The results were discussed with regard to how and why the patient shall receive information. In addition discussion include which contex, where and when information should be given to promote understanding. In general the patients were satisfied with the stay the hospital. Despite this they declare that they do not get information. They expect information from the doctors, not from the nurses. The nurses teach and communicate in connection with nursing and technical procedures. This is an informal way of communication. The results of the study suggest a need for changes in the way the nurses communicate with patients and need for further studies about this subject is suggested.