Table 2.

An overview of the two main areas along with patients' responses to nurses' behaviours, based on patients' narratives of critical incidents.

Main areas	Patients' responses	Nurses' behaviours
	Regarded as a person	- Accessible - Confirms - Listens and asks
Stimulating patient participation	Engaged through information	- Gives necessary explanations - Gives written material - Acts as intermediary of contacts - Gives tips about self-care
	Acknowledged as competent	- Discusses and makes agreements - Hands over responsibility
	Abandoned without backup	- Withdraws - Nonsupportive during the medical ward round
Inhibiting patient participation	Belittled verbally	- Disparages with baby talk - Makes ironic remarks about an experience
	Ignored without influence	- Decides herself and reject views - Answers curtly - Neglects making notes in records