Intensive Care Unit nurses' empathy towards critically ill patients

Abstract

ABSTRACT:The study originated as the researcher question if whether empathy is still present as the health care industry is very dynamic nowadays.This study utilized a qualitative type of research, specifically the Hermeneutic Phenomenological Analysis. Six, one on one, interviews were conducted to discover the lived experience of the Intensive Care Unit Nurses of Davao Doctors Hospital in regard to the concept of empathy.The study had two questions, what is the construal of ICU nurses on empathy and how they practice it. The data gathered twelve subthemes for the first question which illuminated five emerging themes namely, development of affection, heightened awareness, altruism, essential for nursing and caring approach. These themes exemplified how ICU nurses construe empathy. The second question was answered with eleven subthemes which then emerged into four themes, ensuring patient welfare acts of beneficence amending strict policies, protocols and job description and reciprocity. These themes illustrate how the nurses experience empathizing with critically ill patients.The findings of the study enhances the nursing practice by showing the different definitions and practices of nurses in utilizing empathy for the betterment of their health care delivery to their clients. The discoveries of the study may aid the nurses develop their skills, attitudes and personalities as the participants have illuminated how important empathy is, not only to their patients and watchers, but also to their own careers.