meaning of caring, descriptions of
caring, caring exemplified, student nurses
The aim of this research was to explore the concept of caring from the perspectives of
undergraduate BSc general student nurses midway through their educational program. Data
were collected through written narratives. Participants (N = 21) were asked to respond in writing
to three semistructured questions. Data were analysed using content analysis. Analysis yielded
three categories: altruism, authentic presence, and therapeutic care. Findings show that nurse
educators need to capitalize on the experiences that help students who are midway through
their educational program, to internalize the concept of caring, and to develop competency in providing therapeutic caring.