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Presence
What is "presence?"
Presence may be the undergirding factor in
provision of spiritual care. Presence is standing with another,
empathetic listening, and being fully present. Presence consists of
several levels. The most advanced level is when a nurse is
physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually with a client
(Taylor, 2002). Although nurses may not be able to provide this
level of presence to every patient due to time constraints, and many
patients may not need or desire this level, it is a powerful
intervention when used appropriately. Presence may require the nurse
to endure one’s own feelings of discomfort and adequacy (Fredriksson,
1999).
Process of presence
- Nurse is in touch with own self and
willing to use self in encounter with patient
- Nurse intuitively assesses need
- Recognition that encounter may be brief or
a longer process
- Use of appropriate verbal and non-verbal
communication
- Effective and attentive listening
- Exchange of feelings between nurse and
patient
- Nurse is touched by patient’s feelings
- Experiencing one’s powerlessness in
confronting illness
- Nurse maintains appropriate boundaries
Outcomes of presence
- Enables coping
- Diminishes intensity of negative feelings
- Provides a sense of connectedness
- Alleviates suffering
- Fosters psychospiritual growth
- Increased self-understanding
Case Study
At each stage of Diane's Illness, presence will enhance the
nurse's spiritual caregiving. Presence may be perceived as the
bedrock of spiritual care.
Resources
Fredriksson, L. (1999). Modes of relating in a caring
conversation:
A research synthesis on presence, touch, and listening. Journal
of Advanced Nursing, 30, 1167-1176.
Osterman, R., & Schwartz-Barcott, D. (1996). Presence: Four ways
of being there. Nursing Forum, 31(2), 23-30.
Taylor, E. J. (2002). Spiritual care: Nursing theory, research
and practice. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Halstead, M. (2005) |
