Working together, nurses and patients can identify the
information needed to address particular health prob-
lems that patients deem important to them. Nurses of-
ten have knowledge of potential sources of information
that patients may be able to access as they try to manage
their health issues (Pellino et al. 1998). For instance,
patients may lack clinical knowledge that relates to an
identified problem. By providing ongoing information
about the costs and benefits of therapeutic and
behavioural options, nurses can increase patient access
to this source of empowerment. According to Faulkner
(2001), providing relevant information about an illness,
coupled with clear answers to patient questions, is an
example of empowering behaviour on the part of nur-
ses. Grol (2001) suggests that nurses can also empower
their patients through the creative use of information
technology, such as providing access to clinical infor-
mation on the Internet or conducting consultations via
email.
Nurses in clinical settings often provide care for
patients who are unfamiliar with the hospital or clinical
environment who may feel powerless within the health
care system. Virtanen et al. (2007) suggest that this can
be avoided by engaging in empowering discourse which
entails gaining the patients-
respect and establishing
mutually satisfying health goals. Faulkner (2001)
suggests that nurses should familiarize patients with
their surroundings and routines in their initial contact.
He also suggests that nurses carry out care practices
only after explaining why they are necessary, to ensure
patients do not perceive a power imbalance in the nurse/
patient relationship. McWilliam et al. (2001) suggests a
similar approach in homecare settings, arguing for a
flexible, client-driven approach to nursing care. Nurses
in their qualitative study felt that the home environment
allowed them to respond to the patient as an individual