The nurse-patient relationship in cancer care as a shared covenant - A concept analysis

The concept of the nurse-patient covenant was explored using a multiple-method research design. Analysis of the literature (167 references) was the basis for 2 focus group interviews (12 nurses) and 8 semistructured patient interviews. Attributes, antecedents, and consequences were identified through an analysis of findings across all data sources. The nursepatient covenant in cancer care is defined as an enduring relationship, embodying caring benevolence and contextually negotiated reciprocity. It is preceded by the demonstration of nursing competence as a manifestation of nursing tradition and leads to patients' trusting and entrusting nurses, the emergence of personhood and professionhood, and benefits and obligations.