Lammers and Happell (2003) stipulate that
consumers
should be given the opportunity to participate in
accordance with individual interest, attributes, need,
and ability. Sainio and Lauri (2003) and Eldh et al.
(2004) confirm that level of participation needs to bean issue for dialogue between nurses and patients
because preferences change over time and phases of
the disease and treatment. Discussing the issue is essential
because Caress et al. (1998) allege that some patients
exceed their preferred level of participation. Passivity
may be the result of fear or perceived lack of knowledge.
When patients prefer a passive role, which appears to
be well considered and genuine, health professionals
should respect this preference.