The model case serves to provide evidence of what
the concept of patient participation definitively is.
Jenny is a patient in an orthopedic ward. Since the
first day, her primary nurse has regarded Jenny as
an equal partner, activating her to participate in all
aspects of her nursing care. The nurse starts in
Jenny’s frame of reference and uses open-ended
questions to explore expectations, wishes, and
opinions. They also discuss what they expect of
each other. In their regular talks, they get to know
each other and trust and respect develop. Jenny participates
in planning, formulating goals, performing
activities, and evaluation of her own nursing care.
The nurse continually provides information and
knowledge adjusted to Jenny’s needs and Jenny,
in turn, volunteers experiences, values, and beliefs.
This generates informed choices and together they
negotiate acceptable agreements. Jenny has reached
understanding and a sense of control of her own
situation.