Navigating Care Boundaries: Exploring the Limits between Compassionate Care and Neglect1

Abstract

For over two decades in France, the concept of "bientraitance" has echoed within the walls of nursing homes. While recommendations for good professional practices stand as a beacon for the care of the elderly, aiming to prevent the indignity of mistreatment, they may not consistently guide daily care giving practices in these establishments. This study does not delve into the reasons for this discrepancy. Instead, it presents three situations extracted from the field, exploring the concepts of "bientraitance" and its antithesis. Employing a qualitative and reflective approach, the research seeks to examine the nuanced boundary between these two antagonistic modes of care. The caregiver's individual response becomes pivotal, signifying their positioning—whether to remain or contemplate a shift—while respecting the construction of their professional identity and the dignity of the vulnerable individual.