The views of nurses and healthcare users on the development of Ubuntu community model in nursing in selected provinces in South Africa: A participatory action research

Abstract

Background: The Ubuntu philosophy which emanates from the African saying, muthu ndi muthu nga vhathu, a person is a person because of other persons, resonates with nursing ethics.

Purpose: To describe the views of nurses and healthcare users on the development of the Ubuntu community model in nursing.

Methods: A Participatory Action Research approach was used. The participants were professional nurses and healthcare users in three selected provinces in South Africa. Data were gathered through focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Findings: The following themes were identified: the value of a person/human being; human beings are part of nature; values in nursing; principles of Ubuntu in health; and Ubuntu caring actions.

Discussion: By upholding foundational values and principles of Ubuntu, healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, should aim to foster dialogue, empower patients, promote their emancipation, engage with them, and enable the people under their care.

Conclusion: Ubuntu serves as a lens through which nursing can engage with South African populations to design and implement best care for population-specific care outcomes. Understanding the principles and values of Ubuntu can assist nursing students and practicing nurses in developing a moral consciousness that embodies the spirit of Ubuntu, thereby enhancing their ability to address health disparities and improve health outcomes.

Keywords: African people; Ethics; Nursing; Philosophy; Ubuntu.