Dr Kim Ward recently presented research at the Forum for Quality and Safety in Healthcare in Hong Kong. The study, titled “Synthesising Understanding about Family-Inclusive Adult Inpatient Care from Patient and Family Perspectives: An Integrative Review,” explores the inclusion of whānau/family in bedside care.
The research aimed to understand whānau/family-inclusive inpatient care through a systematic integrative review, highlighting the importance of cultural diversity and Indigenous inclusivity. Despite the concept of patient-and-whānau/family-centred care being well-known, feedback indicated inconsistencies in its application.
The team reviewed qualitative and quantitative evidence from 2000 to 2022, analyzing data from five databases. They identified three main themes: culturally sensitive behaviours that foster inclusivity, culturally unsafe care and environments that hinder it, and variable communication practices, with poor communication being a common issue.
The study concluded that whānau/family inclusion in acute care varies, influenced by health professionals’ willingness, cultural competence, and environmental factors. Negative experiences often stemmed from culturally unsafe practices and poor communication. This research underscores the need for consistent, culturally sensitive practices to improve whānau/family-inclusive care in healthcare settings.
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