ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: This study was designed to explore what experiences nurses had while caring and providing emotional support for patients. METHODS: Participants were eight nurses working at hospitals for more than one year. Data were collected from June, 2006 to January, 2007 through in-depth interview by using tape-recordings. Data were analysed with the phenomenological method proposed by Colazzi(1978). RESULTS: From significant statements, 4 clustered themes, 7 themes and 23 sub-themes were extracted from the essential meaning of the emotional experience of hospital nurses. The 4 clustered themes were 'movement of mind', 'affection and service for patients', 'worthwhile and conflict' and 'control oneself'. The 7 themes were 'special feeling', 'rapport formation', 'consideration', 'human interaction', 'value discovery', 'loss of volition', and 'keep to balance'. CONCLUSION: Although nurses had tough experiences for providing care for patients' emotional support, they had also experienced spiritual maturity from its experience. The result of this study would contribute for nurses not only to care for patients who need emotional support but also to develop knowledge in nursing.