title: To cure, to care, or to heal.
abstract: Healing is an unfulfilled potential in the current healthcare system. Although illness is a ritual that necessitates the social support of natural networks and healers, the organization of hospitals impedes support and healing. In this article, the authors analyze the ritual of illness, the hospital as a technological bureaucracy, social networks, and social support, and make recommendations for action by nurses who identify themselves as healers.
authors.affiliation: University of Pittsburgh.
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Geary
authors.forename: J W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Hawkins
mesh_terms: D017028:Caregivers; D002562:Ceremonial Behavior; D006694:Holistic Health; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D013677:Medical Laboratory Science; D009726:Nurses; D012380:Role; D012803:Sick Role; D012944:Social Support