Perceptions of holistic caring practice in a private hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

Qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive research was conducted to explore and describe the perceptions of holistic caring practice in a private hospital in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. The study population included a convenient inclusive sample of twelve (n=12) nurse educators teaching purposely selected second-year students in a bridging programme (SANC, Regulation R683) in a private nursing school in this study. Qualitative data collection methods of structured interviews with nurse educators and student nurses focus group discussions were conducted to explore and describe perceptions on holistic caring practice and develop specific outcomes for nurse educators for future teaching and learning of the holistic caring practice. Field notes taken during interviews were analysed and used as supplement data. Data were analysed concurrently with collection through content and thematic analysis and Tesch’s coding method. The findings revealed the perception of holistic caring practice as comprehensive, patient-centred care that meets total patient needs. The study highlighted challenges affecting the teaching and learning of holistic care as perceived by both student nurses and nurse educators. The need for creative strategies for teaching and learning holistic care that could promote the future holistic caring practice and possibly improve the professional image of the nursing profession also emerged.