[Not Available].
District nurses (DNs) supporting older people at home usually find families are a valuable resource just by being there even if they are not taking an active part in care. However, the researchers found that DNs also believed that families could be a burden. This was underpinned by the DNs' belief that they were the experts and know what is best for families. The researchers felt that, to diminish the suffering of family members, DNs should invite all family members to tell their illness story. They suggest that this can be part of the healing process. The DNs were aware of some of their beliefs but the researchers felt that other beliefs needed to be brought into their awareness so that they could reflect on them.
MSc Gerontological Practice, University of Portsmouth.
Ruth
R
Sander