Unveiling the Nurses' Intentionality in the Transpersonal Caring Relationship: A Technical Action Research

BACKGROUND: Intentionality is a transformative antecedent of the transpersonal caring relationship (TCR). This study aimed to unveil the nurses' intentionality in the TCR after the Mindful Caring Education Program. METHODS: This was a technical action research. The study was conducted in three phases: planning, implementation, and evaluation. The researchers developed a four-session education program (EP) based on the Theory of Unitary Caring Science. The clinical observations, individual interviews, and vignettes were used for evaluation. The study was completed with nine female nurses. The data were analysed using content analysis. FINDINGS: In the study, 4 themes, 11 categories and 8 sub-categories were obtained. Nurses described intentionality as holistic and purposeful actions. Interviews and observations have shown that authentic presence, a helping-trusting caring relationship, and a positive working environment facilitate intentionality. The caring relationship boundaries, heavy working conditions, fatigue, and the dominance of relatives hinder intentionality. Nurses stated significant personal and professional growth after the EP. CONCLUSION: The study identified various factors that either facilitated or hindered nurses' intentionality in the TCR. By participating in the mindful caring EP, nurses were able to cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness in both their personal lives and professional relationships.