Aesthetic Expressions of Caring in Nursing Among Thai Undergraduate Nursing Students

Abstract

Caring is a core value of nursing and is often incorporated in nursing curricula. A qualitative research study was conducted based on Gadamer’s philosophical viewpoints to collect, analyze, and interpret aesthetic expressions of caring in nursing by Thai undergraduate students of nursing. Participants were 41 second-year baccalaureate degree nursing students from a university in Thailand. Data generated were graphic illustrations and short descriptions and narrative statements, which were analyzed and interpreted using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was established following Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Meanings of caring in nursing revealed five thematic categories: (a) nurturing wholeness of persons, (b) practicing aesthetic caring in nursing, (c) sharing self with honesty and trust, (d) helping persons using multiple processes, and (e) enhancing personhood. This study described caring in nursing as focused on persons, human relationships, and nursing processes of caring that enhance personhood. These findings inform professional nursing education toward a transformative caring process for students of nursing who are imbued with caring attributes.