During the third and final phase, the researcher applies theoretical knowledge in order to interpret the meanings of statements. In this case the knowl- edge base is within phenomenology and hermeneu- tics that provides the in-depth understanding. The presentation of the findings includes phases I and II of analysis, while phase III is covered in the discus- sion in this article. The first author has conducted the collection of data and has had the chief responsibility for inter- pretation. The interpretation process should be viewed in light of the first author’s competence, understanding, and experience as teacher in inten- sive care nursing. The second author has followed the process and supplied critical comments and suggestions. Research ethics The study was approved by The National Commit- tee for Medical Research Ethics Region 5 and by the Norwegian Social Science Data Service. The re- spondents’ consent to take part in the study was submitted directly to the first author. Findings and interpretation The analysis reveals a superordinate theme relating to the phenomenon of significant others’ bodily presence and the conflict between proximity and distance. The superordinate theme is derived from analysis and interpretation of six subthemes of physical proximity of significant others. Findings are presented, interpreted, and organised according to Table I. Table I. Overview of subthemes and themes related to intensive care patients’ experience of physical proximity of signiﬁcant others. Sub-theme Theme The conflict between proximity and distance to significant others Opposite bodily reactions to the presence of significant others The conflicting character of reinforcing actions Ambivalent reactions to experiential expressions of significant others Shared experiences may both reinforce and weaken a sense of community The challenge of drawing the line between personal and collective responsibility How bodily proximity to significant others and inability to communicate may cause difficulty and conflict ICU patients experiences in a situation of critical illness Opposite bodily reactions to the presence of significant others Patients talk about their sensuous bodily reactions in a subconscious state, for example to recognise their significant others when they spoke or touched the patient’s body. Some patients talk about the empow- erment the prayers of their loved ones create. Some have experienced strong bodily responses to Reiki (a technique for stress reduction and relaxation). ‘‘They applied reiki . . . gave me strength . . . it was quite indescribable’’ (Female 75 years). These positive experiences create moments of bliss for the patients, but can also have the opposite effect on their health condition. Some patients describe how the presence of significant others drained their resources and energy. . . . I felt crammed . . . my body stiffened . . . my shoulders became rigid and my chest con- strained . . . I felt pushed into a corner. (Female 54 years) Such reactions to significant others’ bodily presence may be seen as restricting the patient’s body. It is a conflict between capacity and expectations in them- selves or in their significant others created by the presence and the situation. Some patients describe an increased sensitivity to temperature and an exhausted body that didn’t function caused by the presence of significant others. . . . I couldn’t have you there . . . I am so tired . . . sending them away broke my heart, but I just couldn’t have them there. (Female 34 years) The presence of significant others at an ICU is in principle positive. But the fact that the patient is critically ill seems to create a dilemma and some- times a choice of admitting visitors or creating an environment in which the patient can rest and focus on basic life support. The conflicting character of reinforcing actions Reinforcing actions are very significant to the patients but may also cause conflicts. The signifi- cance of holding the patient’s hand as an expression of love and care may also create a sense of loss and solitude. Gifts, letters, and notes from significant others remind them they’re not forgotten, yet the significance of significant others can also be regis- tered in their comments to vital aspects of the situation. . . . get well soon, please remember to eat, you need to exercise, you need to . . . I didn’t mind Citation: Int J Qualitative Stud Health Well-being 2010; 5: 5120 - DOI: 10.3402/qhw.v5i4.5120 3 (page number not for citation purpose)