Patients' and Nurses' Perceptions of What Constitutes Good Nursing Care: An Integrative Review

Background: Differences between patients' and nurses' perceptions of good nursing might be one of the barriers to optimal nursing care that matches the preferences of patients. A better understanding of the attributes of Good Nursing Care across different settings, circumstances, and patient populations will provide an integrated idea about Good Nursing Care, which can contribute to nursing theory development and future research. Purpose: This study aimed to integrate the literature on patients' and nurses' perceptions of what constitutes Good Nursing Care and thereby identify the similarities and differences in patients' and nurses' perceptions of Good Nursing Care. Methods: A literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE was conducted for article published between January 2000 and June 2017. A total of 18 studies were identified and assessed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool. The studies were analyzed and synthesized using Swanson's theory of caring as the theoretical framework. Results: Some dissents and agreements were found between patients and nurses regarding the crucial attributes of Good Nursing Care. While “enabling,” such as providing information, coaching, and guidance, was more emphasized by patients, “being with” (being present at the bedside) was more emphasized by nurses. “Doing for,” especially expert performance and enhancing physical comfort, was the most frequently mentioned attribute of Good Nursing Care by both patients and nurses. Implications for Practice: Theoretical developments regarding Good Nursing Care—characterized by a balance between sufficient nursing knowledge and competent technical skills on one hand and patient empowerment based on trusting relationships on the other hand—would promote the provision of Good Nursing Care in clinical practice.