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The symbiotic relationship of vulnerability and resilience in nursing

East, L; Heaslip, VA; Jackson, D

Authors

L East

D Jackson



Abstract

Background: Whilst the terms vulnerability and resilience are commonly used within professional nursing discourses, they are often poorly understood. Vulnerability is often framed negatively and linked to being at risk of harm, whilst resilience is often perceived as the ability to withstand challenges. Aim: The aim of this paper is to explore resilience and vulnerability; re-positioning them within the context of contemporary professional nursing practice. Design: Discussion paper. Method: Drawing upon historical and contemporary international literature, both concepts are de-constructed and then re-constructed, examining them from the position of patient care as well as from the perspective of nurses and the nursing profession. Conclusion: Resilience and vulnerability have an interdependent relationship as resilience comes into play in situations of vulnerability. Yet, contrary to the popular discourse they are multi-faceted, complex phenomena based on factors such as individual circumstances, supports, and resources.

Citation

East, L., Heaslip, V., & Jackson, D. (2019). The symbiotic relationship of vulnerability and resilience in nursing. Contemporary Nurse, 56(1), 14-22. https://doi.org/10.1080/10376178.2019.1670709

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Sep 15, 2019
Online Publication Date Oct 2, 2019
Publication Date Oct 2, 2019
Deposit Date Oct 20, 2022
Journal Contemporary Nurse
Print ISSN 1037-6178
Electronic ISSN 1839-3535
Publisher e-Content Management
Volume 56
Issue 1
Pages 14-22
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/10376178.2019.1670709
Publisher URL http://doi.org/10.1080/10376178.2019.1670709