Van der Wath, Anna ElizabethVan Wyk, Neltjie C.2019-12-032020-09Van der Wath, A. & Van Wyk, N. 2020, 'A hermeneutic literature review to conceptualise altruism as a value in nursing', Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, vol. 34, no. 3, pp. 575-584.0283-9318 (print)1471-6712 (online)10.1111/scs.12771http://hdl.handle.net/2263/72474BACKGROUND : Discussions on ethics of care are needed to shape the identity of nurses and nursing. In light of the discourses surrounding nursing and altruism, nurses should initiate research on altruism and nursing. AIM : The purpose of this literature review was to explore the meaning of altruism as a value in nursing. REVIEW METHODS : A hermeneutic approach, using a circular framework, was followed to search for literature, review and understand the text. RESULTS : The conceptualisation of altruism as a value in nursing care in this review strives to describe what altruism is; in what situations does it appear; for what purpose is it used; and how is it practiced. CONCLUSION : Altruism enables nurses to tolerate difficult situations and motivates them to sacrifice themselves and do what is best for the patient, especially when patients are compromised in their ability to care for themselves.en© 2019 Nordic College of Caring Science. This is the pre-peer reviewed version of the following article : A hermeneutic literature review to conceptualise altruism as a value in nursing', Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, vol. 34, no. 3, pp. 575-58, 2020, doi : 10.1111/scs.12771. The definite version is available at : https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14716712.AltruismCompassionEmpathyNursing ethicsNursing valuesPostprint Article