Holistic nursing care for people diagnosed with an eating disorder: A qualitative study based on patients and nursing professionals' experience

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze eating disorder patients and nursing professionals' views and experience of the relationship-based care established.

Design and methods: A qualitative study that employs an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Nineteen patients and 19 nurses participated in the research through interviews and narrations.

Findings: Nurses' help is both unexpected and relevant during the patients' recovery process. They provide care not focusing just on nutritional aspects, other factors such as mutual help, the psychological, emotional, social, and personal aspects are highlighted.

Practice implications: This study provides a deep understanding of the relationship-based care established that makes it possible to expand knowledge and to individualize the care provided.

Keywords: feeding and eating disorders; hermeneutics; mental health; nursing care; psychiatric nursing.