Nurses' perceptions of people who are homeless

There are few data-based reports about the perceptions of nurses toward marginalized groups and even fewer about the transformation of perceptions. The purpose of this study was to explore nurses' perceptions of people who are homeless and to describe transforming experiences. Rich, detailed experiences of the care provided to people who were homeless were elicited through in-depth interviews with 15 nurses and nursing students. Without exception, each participant in this study indicated that listening, connecting, and understanding were important to them in changing previously held negative beliefs. However, when clients did not express appreciation or behave in expected ways, nurses became frustrated and voiced negative feelings about people who are homeless. Study findings emphasize the importance of listening and connecting with people who are different from ourselves so that our shared humanity is acknowledged and appreciated.