Background

Forgiveness—of self and others—is essential to holistic health, encompassing mental, emotional, physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being. As holistic caregivers, nurses must be prepared to facilitate forgiveness in patient care.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine nursing students’ and faculty’s perceptions about forgiveness in a private faith-based university in the United States.

Methods

Following IRB approval, faculty and students (n = 11) from a large nursing school participated in focus groups discussing their perceptions about forgiveness. Quantitative measures included the Enright Forgiveness Inventory-30 and the Enright Self-Forgiveness Inventory to assess forgiveness of others and self-forgiveness, and the Duke University Religion Index to assess religiosity.

Results

Six themes emerged from qualitative analysis: (1) Forgiveness is a Spiritual Process, (2) Forgiveness is a Personal Choice, (3) Forgiveness is Essential for Self-care, (4) Forgiveness Affects Patient Care, (5) Is Reconciliation Essential for Forgiveness?, and (6) Forgiveness Has Challenges. Quantitative data supported varied levels of forgiveness and religiosity among participants.

Conclusions

Faculty and graduate students recognized forgiveness as vital for self-care, team cohesion, and patient outcomes. Open dialogue and self-reflection are key to preparing nurses to facilitate forgiveness effectively.

Implications for Nursing

Nursing educators must understand forgiveness and its impact on health and teamwork to promote holistic care. Further research across diverse faith backgrounds is recommended

Identification of resources on clear strategies to facilitate forgiveness is essential.