Abstract: Examines the role of interpersonal relationships on patients' experiences during first time acute hospitalisation. Involving 12 first time acute medical and surgical admission patients, it was developed from a wider study exploring patients' overall experiences. Using a qualitative methodology with data collected by means of personal stories and semi-structured interviews findings suggest that patient vulnerability is reduced through supportive interpersonal relationships and that it is nurses who play a key role in developing and maintaining these relationships with patients.