Critical-Care Nurses' Perceptions of Hope

Background Nurses can be a source of inspiring hope in patients and families. There is limited investigation of hope-inspiring actions of critical-care nurses, particularly in the United States. Objective The aim of this study was to explore critical-care nurses' perceptions of hope-inspiring strategies in adult patients and families. Methods Qualitative description was used to explore perceptions. Results A convenience sample of critical-care nurses participated (n = 14) in one-on-one interviews. Themes were identified from transcripts of audiotapes. Participants described hope as something to “hang on to” and “move” you forward or toward something. Assessment of hope was identified as a “verbal and nonverbal connection,” often done subconsciously. Hope was inspired through “communication.” Patient and/or family behaviors signified that hope-inspiring strategies may be working. Discussion Nurses have the power to assess, inspire, and evaluate hope. Nurses use similar hope-inspiring strategies regardless of their specialty area of critical-care practice. Findings from this qualitative study added to knowledge on hope-inspiring strategies of critical-care nurses.