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Developing relationships: A strategy for compassionate nursing care of the dying in Japan

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 November 2013

Kaori Shimoinaba ,
Margaret O'Connor ,
Susan Lee  and
David Kissane
Kaori Shimoinaba*
Affiliation:
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Palliative Care Research Team, Frankston VICAustralia
Margaret O'Connor
Affiliation:
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Palliative Care Research Team, Frankston VICAustralia
Susan Lee
Affiliation:
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Palliative Care Research Team, Frankston VICAustralia
David Kissane
Affiliation:
Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Frankston VIC, Australia
*
Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Kaori Shimoinaba, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Palliative Care Research Team, PO Box 527, Frankston VIC 3166Australia. E-mail: kaori.shimoinaba@monash.edu
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Abstract

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to explore the type of relationship and the process of developing these relationships between nurses and patients in palliative care units in Japan. The special contribution that culture makes was examined to better understand the intensity of nurses’ grief after the death of their patient.

Methods:

Thirteen Japanese registered nurses currently practicing in palliative care units were interviewed between July 2006 to June 2009. Theoretical sampling was utilised and the data were analysed using grounded theory methodology. Constant comparison was undertaken during coding processes until data saturation was achieved.

Results:

Significant cultural influences emerged both in the type of relationship nurses formed with patients and in the way they developed relationships. The type of relationship was termed ‘human-to-human’, meaning truly interpersonal. The cultural values of ‘Uchi (inside) and Soto (outside)’ have particular implications for the relationship. Four actions Being open, Trying to understand, Devoting time and energy, and Applying a primary nurse role, were identified as strategies for nurses to develop such relationships. The quality of this deeply committed encounter with patients caused nurses to grieve following patients’ death.

Significance of results:

Culture is a major influence upon the reasons, complexities, and impact that lie behind nurses’ behaviours. Attention is needed to support nurses to sustain a fundamental caring quality in their relationships with patients.

Keywords

palliative carenursingrelationshipculturegrief
Type
Original Articles
Information
Palliative & Supportive Care , Volume 12 , Issue 6 , December 2014 , pp. 455 - 464
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2013 

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