Nursing and Narrative Approach

Abstract

In patient-centered care, narratives can be a way of seeing the person “behind” the patient or client.

Personal narrative are autobiographical stories based on a patient’s life events. Personal narratives can help nurses understand a patient’s personality and gain insight into their concerns and symptoms.

Co-creation of narratives with patients can help to give meaning to memories and lead to personal growth.

Narratives can also help professionals to understand patients better and shift the focus from diagnoses and interventions to the patient’s life story. Narrative are a way to explore the challenges faced by patients in dealing with illness, including factors within and outside of the healthcare system.

Narratives provide insights into how healthcare professionals can create partnerships with patients to improve communication and support patients in their patient journey.