Seeking Common Ground: A Grounded Theory of the Nurse-Patient Relationship in Cancer Infusion Care.

Background: The nurse-patient relationship represents a valuable connection in cancer care. Largely studied within inpatient settings, the nature and influence of this central relationship in ambulatory settings remain relatively unexamined. The notable shift to ambulatory settings like infusion centers warrants examination of the nurse-patient relationship in this context.

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop a grounded theory of the nurse-patient relationship in ambulatory cancer infusion care.

Interventions/methods: Using grounded theory methodology, 11 nurses were interviewed using a semistructured interview guide. Data collection continued until data saturation occurred with the primary concepts.

Results: The grounded theory, entitled Seeking Common Ground, includes 6 primary concepts. The concepts "we are all human"; "we work in a busy, complex environment"; "we seek common ground with patients"; "we use connections to support meaningful encounters"; "we find meaning in the relationships created"; and "we are governed by the push and pull of time" abstract the nurse-patient relationship from the nurses' perspective, emphasizing fundamental human connections.

Conclusions: The grounded theory Seeking Common Ground depicts the profound connection that nurses form with their patients in the ambulatory infusion setting. Underscoring the value of the nurse-patient relationship as foundational to the nursing profession must be driven through practice, education, and policy.

Implications for practice: Consideration of educational aspects within nursing across all levels to influence clinical practice will remain key.