The care of chronically ill and older adults affects families in terms of physical, emotional, relational, and social impact; the functioning of the family; and an alteration in family dynamics. This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of family caregivers of older patients in depth. A qualitative study was conducted, consisting of twenty-four narrative interviews with caregivers of chronically ill and older adults, consisting of twenty-three women and one man. The caregivers were all close relatives of the patients. The main results were as follows: (i) caregiving is predominantly performed by females; (ii) the caregiver experiences an ‘indirect’ illness; (iii) the family undergoes changes in roles, responsibilities, and relationships; (iv) support needs emerge, especially those of a social, family, work, and economic nature; and (v) resources are also activated, linked to the presence or absence of self-care. Illnesses directly impact the primary caregiver, but they also have repercussions on the entire family unit, which may activate coping strategies or lead to breakdown. It is crucial to accurately monitor the new family dynamics in order to find suitable solutions to support the family of chronically ill and older patients, underscoring the importance of work in this area.
1 June 2020 in Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice
The reasons that condition and motivate adherence to good practices have a multifactorial nature. From the literature review, emerged different elements that interact within the operating context and represent a part of the variables that condition the "Best Practice". The aim of this research was to investigate the variables that influence adherence to operators' good practices. A qualitative study with Grounded Theory (GT) methodology was carried out, which leads to the establishment of a theory about basic social processes. This theory is based on the observation and perception of the social scene and evolves during data collection. Data collection took place through interviews with the participants, through an ad hoc semi-structured interview grid. The initial sampling consisted of 12 health workers, while the theoretical sample was made up of 6 health workers. The analysis organization through the creation of schemes and diagrams has allowed to formulate different concepts including: false beliefs, knowledge and emotions experienced, that connect with the initial condition of Unconsciousness unaware; awareness of the consequences, team, welcome the new, which are connected to the intermediate phase of Revolution of the professional oneself; awareness of the limits, culture, responsibility, context, rigor and control that connects to the final state of Attentive Habit. The theoretical model develops through a path of growth and revolution that starts from the roots of an Unconsciousness unaware and brings with it the seed of a model.
The healthcare professionals’ specialized training has a positive impact on professional values, patient’s outcome, and promotion of evidence-based practices. To raise the educational standard, the University of Parma has created Post Graduate Specializations which, in addition to learning sector-specific techniques and skills, include the acquisition of soft skills. Aim of the study is investigating the perception of the tutors dedicated to the organization, management, and teaching of the Post Graduate Specializations on the skills gained and the changes achieved in clinical practice, training, and research. Qualitative research was carried out through a semi-structured interview to 11 tutors who have been coordinating the Post Graduate Specializations. The Qualitative analysis developed “thick” descriptions characterized by analytical density and interpretative richness. The emerging thematic nuclei were: General/unpredicted aspects, Professional empowerment, Satisfaction, Professional outcomes, Limits of the Post Graduate Specializations, and Development areas. We identified the most effective areas of the Post Graduate Specializations that emerged consistently from the interviews. We hypothesized that the values and mission the Scientific Board, are effectively lived and championed in the everyday activities of the Post Graduate Specializations. Some domains still need to be furtherly developed, as the professional record, the absence of a “follow up” relationship with former students, and the effective management of workload both for students and tutors. The rise of these limits, can be particularly fruitful, as it gives the chance to identify the development trajectory the post-graduate trainings should pursue to raise the standard of excellence. (www.actabiomedica.it)
_Background and aim. _Several studies in the literature state that cancer patients show unmet needs despite standard care. The aim of the study was to understand the perceptions of Nurse Case Care Managers (NCCM), working in oncological settings, regarding the patients’ and relatives’ met or unmet needs. _Methods _The study used a qualitative approach through a semi-structured interview. Researchers recruited twenty NCCM working in the oncology area and performing their functions in four Local Health Authorities in Northern and Central Italy. NCCM were selected based on a convenience criterion. The study took place from April 2021 to February 2022. _Results:_ It emerged that numerous needs were not always met and that dysfunctionally affected the quality of life of cancer patients. These included information, emotional, psychological, and social needs. Feelings of fear, distress, anxiety, and depression often accompanied them. These were complex needs that were difficult to address. Case Care Managers have shown themselves to be able to recognise the needs. These findings underscored the urgent need to recognise and address the complex needs of cancer patients and their relatives. This study served as a call to action, urging the healthcare community to strive for comprehensive solutions to these pressing issues. _Conclusion:_ The perceptions of Nurse Case Care Managers show that several needs are still unmet in cancer patients and their relatives. NCCMs believe that their role helps understand patients' unmet needs as well.