The sociology of intimacy in the nurse-patient relationship
Intended for healthcare professionals
Art & Science Previous     Next

The sociology of intimacy in the nurse-patient relationship

Maura Dowling Lecturer, Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Ireland, Galway

This article examines intimacy from a sociological perspective. It reveals that ‘over-involved’ or ‘intimate’ nurse-patient relationships do not tend to be welcomed by nurses. The work of certain theorists is explored to provide a sociological explanation of intimate nurse-patient relationships and to highlight the complexities of nurses developing intimate relationships with patients in the workplace.

Nursing Standard. 20, 23, 48-54. doi: 10.7748/ns2006.02.20.23.48.c4070

Correspondence

maura.dowling@nuigalway.ie

Peer review

This article has been subject to double blind peer review

Want to read more?

RCNi-Plus
Already have access? Log in

or

3-month trial offer for £5.25/month

Subscribe today and save 50% on your first three months
RCNi Plus users have full access to the following benefits:
  • Unlimited access to all 10 RCNi Journals
  • RCNi Learning featuring over 175 modules to easily earn CPD time
  • NMC-compliant RCNi Revalidation Portfolio to stay on track with your progress
  • Personalised newsletters tailored to your interests
  • A customisable dashboard with over 200 topics
Subscribe

Alternatively, you can purchase access to this article for the next seven days. Buy now


Are you a student? Our student subscription has content especially for you.
Find out more