Shining a Light on Nursing Art in Pakistan

Abstract

Nursing is considered both science and art. Artful nursing has been essential for holistic nursing practice since the time of Nightingale, but it is getting neglected and has been lately limited to nursing literature (Gramling, 2004). This qualitative study seeks to gain an understanding of the perceptions of active nurses in Pakistan about nursing art and yields four major themes: artful nursing is embedded in humane responsiveness, artful nursing has healing power, artful nursing is a satisfying experience, and artful nursing is invisible in nursing practice. Study participants valued nursing art, and their perceptions illuminate Watson's Theory of Human Caring (1988).

Nurses’ perceptions about the dignity of intubated patients

“…Dignity of intubated patients was defined by participants as both humane and technological responsiveness in routine care which is consistent with multiple studies in literature. 22,[37][38][39] Thus, the participants perceived that caring for the dignity of intubated patients is incorporated in both the art and the science of nursing which is a new concept. The humane expression of dignity was related to the art of nursing encompassing the principles of ethics that protect patients' rights, promote compassionate care, and respect patients' choices in the intensive and technical milieu.…”

“…These findings are supported by multiple studies in the critical care literature. 4,22,37,39 However, the scientific expression of dignity encompasses the evidence-based nursing practices, effective use of technology, and the use of critical thinking in acute and routine conditions. These findings are also supported by multiple studies conducted in the ICCUs.…”

“…3 Today, the intensive and critical care (ICC) nurses are more evaluated on the basis of their mastery in the use of these technologies and prompt management of acute situations, 2 rather than on their practice of nursing as an art. 22 The mechanical environment of the ICCUs, with the priority to the management of life-threatening conditions, challenge effective care 23 and consume more of the nursing focus at the cost of intubated patients’ dignity. In turn, this can obscure patients’ individuality making patients as objects to be cared for, with their dignity being overlooked.…”