The purpose of this study was to uncover the meaning of engagement for nurses who care for children and their families. This study employed a hermeneutic-phenomenological methodology as specified by van Manen (1984, 1990) and Ray (1991). A convenience sample consisted of eight nurses who worked in a pediatric ambulatory care setting. Data were generated from audiotaped interviews and journaling. The first level of reflection revealed the themes and metathemes of the meaning of engagement: Making Connection: Becoming Aware of the Person; Perceiving the Other: Developing and Nurturing the Relationship; A Sense of Investment: Unfolding From Commitment; and Remaining Distant: Choosing Not To Engage. In the second level of reflection selected literature further illuminated the meaning of engagement. Through deeper reflection, the metaphor Creating a Safe Passage surfaced to capture the meaning of engagement. This research supports the transformation of health care delivery toward a greater emphasis on the caring relationship. Findings illuminate specific characteristics of an engaged relationship. Implications for sensitizing health care professionals in practice, education, and research are described.
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Margaret Burns (1994) studied this question.
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