Behavioral Patterns in Nurse–Patient Dyads: A Critical Incident Study

Abstract

Nurse–patient dyads need to be elucidated further, since the nurse–patient interaction affects patient compliance and satisfaction. The aim of the study was to determine the behaviors of nurses and patients during interactions that promote or hinder their bonding, using a critical incident technique. Fifty-five nurses and patients formed different types of dyads and were observed during interactions and later interviewed. The study was carried out at four hospitals in Manila, the Philippines. Behavioral patterns that promoted and hampered bonding in the dyadic relationship emerged. Positive and negative behaviors specific to the nurse or patient and common to both were determined. Nurses and patients generally responded positively to positive behaviors and negatively to negative behaviors. Instances in which the nurse or patient responded positively to a negative behavior or vice versa were also identified. The promotive and inhibitive behaviors of nurses and patients toward bonding affected the outcomes of their interactions. The dyadic relationship between nurse and patient is a synergistic, evolving process. The nurse or patient can freely and consciously steer the interactions toward a therapeutic or nontherapeutic relationship.