Den som våker, sover ikke : om våking og verdighet

The purpose of this study is to develop an ideal model for the concept of watch / watching over and dignity from a caring science perspective. An ideal model refers to what is possible and desirable. The concept of watching over has earlier received little attention. I have therefore undertaken to determine the substance of this concept using Eriksson’s (2010) model of concept determination. Dignity has earlier been studied by others, and the intention in this study is to see the connection between watching and dignity. The study has a hermeneutical design. This involves the use of an interpretive methodology where new understanding is created through the fusion of different horizons of understanding. Gadamers philosophical hermeneutics is the chosen approach in my process of understanding the subject matter. The study uses three types of data and methods. I conduct a semantical og etymological analysis of the concepts using different types of dictionaries. In the etymological analysis watch over, awake and other similar concepts are investigated. The semantical analysis focuses on awake. In addition the nature of watching over is determined using Norse mythology and myths. The last part of the concept determinatin is the interpretation of conversations with patients, nurses and family caregivers. Five patients, four nurses and three family caregivers took part in the conversations whilst the patients were on an intensive ward. The ideal model includes the following four thesis: Watching over is to be abode in the space of wakefulness for dignity and dignified care. Watching as the spirit of community means being in an energy field that makes movement, change and transformation possible. Watching over is to waken to wakefulness, health, vitality and courage. Watching over is to keep watch quietly and harmoniously in readiness for what may come