PURPOSE: To explore and understand the use and intended outcomes of presence from the perspective of and as experienced by nurses. METHODS: Twenty-seven nurses participated in one of four focus groups. Data were analyzed using Giorgi\u27s phenomenological method. FINDINGS: Four themes emerged: (1) therapeutic communication; (2) nurse well-being; (3) dimensions of presence; and (4) intention to improve client outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Presence was described as a multidimensional intervention that required therapeutic communication and nurse well-being with the intention of improving client outcomes. Study findings provide evidence of the significance of presence in the face of human interaction that is shifting to virtual, impersonal communication
