The essence of caring between a nurse and client during cardiac catheterization

This research study, utilizing Colaizzi's phenomenological method, examined the clients' perspective of a caring interaction between a nurse and client during cardiac catheterization. Eight participants described their experience of a caring interaction with a nurse during cardiac catheterization. Formulated meanings were derived from their significant statements and then grouped into themes. Three common themes emerged to form the essence of caring. The ingredients for a caring interaction included connecting through genuine presence, being there through technical competence, and caring as a way of seeing through verbal communication. By providing an understanding of the clients' perspective, this study will benefit the nursing profession and contribute to the foundation of a theory based practice for the care of the client who has experienced cardiac catheterization. This practice will be grounded in the caring philosophy.