ABSTRACT
Storytelling is a basic cultural phenomenon that has recently been recognized as a valuable method for collecting research data and developing multidisciplinary interventions. The purpose of this article is to present a collection of nursing scholarship wherein the concept of storytelling, underpinned by cultural phenomena, is explored for data collection and intervention. A conceptual analysis of storytelling reveals key variables. Following a brief review of current research focused on storytelling used within health care, three case studies among three vulnerable populations (American Indian teen mothers, American Indian cancer survivors, and African American women at risk for HIV/AIDS) demonstrate the uses of storytelling for data collection and intervention. Implications for transcultural nursing regarding storytelling are discussed.
Subject(s)
Communication , Folklore , Nurse's Role , Adolescent , Black or African American , Female , Humans , Population Groups , Pregnancy , Transcultural Nursing , Vulnerable Populations , Women's HealthABSTRACT
The Faith Community Nurse can be an important agent in supporting the mental health of individuals during important life transitions by providing social support, spiritual care, referral services, and health education. Faith communities often include individuals of many generations; the young and old, newly married and recently widowed, new parents, and families whose young adults have recently left home. Nurses who provide care in these settings will likely have unique and frequent opportunities to provide mental health services and referrals to individuals experiencing transitions related to crisis, hospitalization, death, and other important life changes. Faith Community Nurses are at the frontline, aiding faith communities in supporting holistic health of the mind, body, and spirit.
