How much closeness should caregivers allow? How much distance from the patient is necessary? This book addresses the constant balancing act between professional closeness and occupational role distance in outpatient care. The author examines the backgrounds, contents, and courses of action in dealing with the socially defined distance and the culturally expected closeness, which is influenced by individual needs and the intimacy of daily work. An analytically outstanding and precise work that significantly expands the nursing theoretical debate.