CULTURALY DIVERSE FAMILY MEMBERS AND THEIR HOSPITALISED RELATIVES IN ACUTE CARE WARDS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

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.