Investigating Nurses' Caring Behavior When Dealing with Patients with Emerging Diseases

Abstract

Background: In the era of emerging diseases, the caring behavior of nurses is regarded as a crucial factor in managing health crises. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the caring behaviors of nurses when interacting with patients affected by emerging diseases. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 210 nurses from two educational and medical centers, Sayad Shirazi and Panj Azar, in Gorgan. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. The instrument utilized was a questionnaire comprising two demographic sections and the Caring Behaviors Inventory (CBI-42). Data were analyzed using SPSS-24, employing descriptive statistics (frequency, median) and inferential tests, including the Spearman, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: The study demonstrated that the age of nurses was significantly associated with "confidence in human presence" (P = 0.002), "positive communication" (P = 0.009), and "attention to the experiences of others" (P = 0.034). Additionally, work experience was linked to the dimensions of respect (P = 0.015), positive communication (P = 0.012), and attention to others' experiences (P = 0.008). Marital status was associated with all dimensions of care (P < 0.05); however, education, gender, and blood type did not exhibit any significant associations. These findings underscore the importance of nurses' experience and social status in influencing their caregiving behaviors. Conclusions: Nurses' caring behaviors are correlated with both experiential and individual factors that affect the quality of care delivery. Such observations can serve as a valuable foundation for educational and support planning in healthcare settings.