Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To describe the experiences of culturally diverse family members who make the decision to stay with their relatives in acute care wards. DESIGN: A qualitative descriptive study. SETTING: Medical and surgical wards in an acute care hospital with a 70% non-English speaking background patient population. SUBJECTS: Eight culturally diverse family members who stayed with their hospitalised relatives for at least four shifts or the equivalent hours. METHOD: In-depth interviews of approximately 45 minutes. FINDINGS: Three main categories described the experience of family members. These categories were carrying out in-hospital roles, adhering to ward rules, and facing concerns. CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate nurses and family members could benefit from negotiating active partnerships; family friendly ward environments need to be fostered, supported by appropriate policies; and further research is needed into culturally diverse family members' partnerships with nurses in acute care settings.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing |
Publication status | Published - 2006 |
Keywords
- family relations
- intensive care nursing
- qualitative research
- cultural diversity
- inpatients
- Australia