Caring as a Scripted Discourse versus Caring as an Expression of an Authentic Relationship between Self and Other

Abstract

As health care has become increasingly complex, the human caring associated with nursing has become eclipsed by financial bottom lines and managed care initiatives. Because patients and others expect a caring health care system, hospitals have responded in varying ways to re-infuse caring into the patient's experience. This article examines two approaches (the Jean Watson Caring Science Approach and the Studer Group Approach) and considers the effect of each on the authenticity of the nurse patient relationship.