Promoting Hope in Visually Impaired Patients in Finland

Tampereen ammattikorkeakoulu Tampere University of Applied Sciences Degree Programme in Nursing Option of Medical-Surgical Nursing GUO, JIAOJIAO & POPA, DIANA: Promoting Hope in Visually Disabled Patients in Finland Bachelor's thesis 42 pages, appendices 2 pages October 2014 The aim of this study was to explore the benefits of hope promotion in visually impaired patients in Finland, since there is insufficient information on the topic. The purpose was to develop teaching material for the students in Tampere University of Applied Sciences. The product provides evidence-based recommendations for nurses to build hope in visually impaired patients. The findings reveal that hope is a crucial element in the recovery process. The major aspects of building hope in visually impaired patients are trust, ethics, strong communication, motivation, consolidation, and substantial reflection. Moreover, nurses play a key role in fostering hope for patients. In order to understand the individual needs and goals for the treatment, nurses need to work in collaboration with their patients. In conclusion, the process of promoting hope is gradual and involves specific knowledge and skills. Further studies should focus on the experiences of visually impaired patients as they are experts of their own situation. Furthermore, future research should aim to develop material regarding the needs of visually impaired people and to create strategies for nurses in order to improve their quality of care.