The meaning of caring from the perspectives of patients undergoing physical therapy.
This research note describes a pilot study that examined the meaning of caring from the perspectives of patients undergoing physical therapy.


METHODS
A phenomenological methodology was used to explore the essential meaning of caring behaviors from the experiences of patients undergoing physical therapy. Patients were asked to describe caring interactions they have experienced with their physical therapists.


RESULTS
The responses of the participants were inductively analyzed for themes and sub-themes that explained physical therapy caring. Based on that analysis, a central theme of mindful caring emerged from participants' responses. The theme of mindful caring reflected the physical therapist and patient relationship. Further analysis uncovered four sub-themes that gave a clearer picture of caring behaviors experienced by the participants. These included personal values, patient empowerment, open communication and exceptional service.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this pilot study demonstrate the dimensions of caring in healthcare practice from the unique perspectives of patients.
Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1462 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. bgreenf@emory.edu
Bruce
B
Greenfield
Erin
E
Keough
Sydney
S
Lynn
Derek
D
Little
Christine
C
Portela
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004645:Empathy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D057240:Patient Preference; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations