Exploring the Evolution of the Term "Presence" in Nursing: A Literature Review

Abstract

[eng] This article explores the evolution of the concept of presence as a therapeutic and care measure in nursing from 1962 to the present. The findings are derived from an extensive bibliographic search conducted through documentary sources such as PubMed and Google Scholar, utilizing and interlinking descriptors including “nursing,” “presence,” “care,” “intentionality,” “humanization,” and “concept.” The results reveal a progressive refinement and enrichment of the concept of presence, culminating in recent developments that emphasize an intentional perspective, which seeks to enhance the human, integral, and ethical dimensions of health relationships. Intentional Presence represents a novel approach to accompaniment and care, which has become fundamental in holistic nursing, fostering a deeper and more human connection between nurse and patient, leading to more comprehensive and meaningful care.