Nurturing nursing professionals: Unleashing the rhizomatic power of expression, creativity, and art as resistance

In light of the profound impacts of healthcare politics and the treatment of nurses during the pandemic, there is an urgent need to emotionally nurture and empower nursing professionals. This thought piece explores how art, poetry, children’s books, plays, and festivals can serve as powerful tools for emotional expression and resilience among nurses. Drawing on Deleuze and Guattari’s rhizomatic philosophy, which emphasizes non-hierarchical, interconnected structures, this piece advocates for the integration of artistic and creative practices in nursing education and professional development. Such interventions can foster personal growth, enhance patient care, and challenge oppressive healthcare structures. By valuing and encouraging individual creativity, nurses can develop deeper connections with patients, advocate for social justice, and contribute to innovative healthcare solutions.