Title: Article on Empathy

Biography:

Prof Karani is a full  Professor of Nursing & Nursing Education at University of Nairobi since 2013 and was Associate Professor from 2008. She obtained her doctorate in 2002 from University of Nairobi. She has a wide experience in clinical work in hospital and in community work as well as extensive experience in teaching and research work. She has more than 50 publications in peer reviewed journals and books. Prof. Karani has received several awards for promoting community work and nursing education. These awards include: Queen of England award of Officer (sister) Order of St John of Jerusalem, Daystar & KEMRI (2013); the Head of State Commendation (HSC) which she was awarded during the 40th celebration of Independence on 12th December 2003; the Wharton Fellows Program in Management for Nurse Executives by Johnson & Johnson awarded in 2008;Long service award for IRB KEMRI 2013;  Recognition Award for Dedication &  Excellence for providing training on HIV/AIDS by Marquette University, School of Nursing in 2003; International Council of Nurses Certificate for Continuing Education in 1999; gold medal for services at the 4th All Africa Games in 2009; and Recognition of Commitment, Diligence and Long Service by National Nurses of Kenya in 2009’ among others. She is currently the Chief Nursing Officer for St. John Ambulance Kenya, the Vice Chair of the Nursing Council of Kenya, Lead Trainer for Leadership For Change for International Council of Nurses (ICN) Kenya. She is a member of both Kenyatta National Hospital/University of Nairobi and the KEMRI, ERC. She also serves as the Chief Editor of the Kenya Nursing Journal. She was the coordinator post-graduate programs and head of Education/ Administration School of Nursing Sciences University of Nairobi. Prof Karani is an external examiner to nursing programs in the region and has initiated some collaboration with local, regional and international nursing programs. 

Abstract

Introduction: Empathy is an affective-cognitive concept that has a rationally mediated set of responses. Family forms the basis of societal identity, kinships and survival. Through families the basis of caring, socialization and identity for individuals is established.  Family empathy ensures that family members care for one another as a shared responsibility. This study aimed at describing empathy characteristic values in caring.

Methodology: An explanatory sequential design was used to conduct a qualitative research at Kenyatta National Hospital. A purposive sample of thirty-two nurses were randomly assigned to three focused groups for discussions. Data collection was by verbatim notes and recorded tapes. Data analysis was by correspondence and thematic analysis.

Findings: Empathy involves displaying kindness and concern for others while caring is the state of being aware or informed about needs and intervening to meet that need. The relationship between empathy and caring was significant (p=0.000; p=0.05). Empathy as a value in caring was characterized by kindness, tolerance, listening, understanding and being available to intervene in patient needs. Caring was viewed as ability to achieve patient healthcare satisfaction, boost self-image and esteem for nurses, professional pride, encouraging social cohesion and fosters national unity.

Conclusion: Empathy has its values in family and social structure. A functional family structure prepares individuals to embrace values of empathy and care for others as a personal responsibility. Caring nature of nurses has benefits for both nurses and patients.