Implementation of a caring theoretical framework in a multihospital system.

Nursing leaders at a multihospital healthcare system developed a goal to introduce Swanson's theory of caring, to support nursing practice. A descriptive correlational study design was used to measure patient and family perceptions of nurses' caring behaviors. The plan focused on staff education. Significantly higher levels of nurses' caring behaviors were reported posteducation compared with preeducation. Providing care based on a theoretical framework is consistent with Magnet® standards and may enhance the perception of caring practices by patients and families.