Abstract
Introduction: Research into the lived experience of CI describes discomfort, feeling isolated and ignored when interacting with SUP. Negative feelings are also described by SUP and relatives when attempting to communicate with patients with CI. The study aim is to explore a humanising relationship-centred approach to support the development of positive relationships between patients, relatives and SUP.
Method: A 2-phase action research study with 2 stroke units over 20 months. Phase 1 explored the experiences of positive relationships with SUP, patients and relatives, and collaborated with SUP to develop and evaluate practices that supported relationships. Phase 2 used practices developed in Phase 1 to explore translation to a second setting. Methods were participant observation, interviews, story-telling and group discussions. Processes of sense-making and immersion crystallisation were used to analyse data with staff as co-analysts.
Results: Three themes described the processes in clinical practice to support positive relationships:
1. SUP or relatives intention to reach out towards, to try and connect with those with CI, was most meaningful for patients with CI. Successful transaction of information was less important.
2. Relatives and SUP used vicarious storytelling to share and maintain the uniqueness of the patient with CI.
3. Increasing SUP sensitivity to communicating beyond words – drawing on their emotional or tacit response during encounters.
Conclusion: This study has shown SUP using a humanising relationship-centred focus and wordless narratives support positive, therapeutic relationships. It offers new insights into practice developments beyond conventional supportive communication strategies.
Method: A 2-phase action research study with 2 stroke units over 20 months. Phase 1 explored the experiences of positive relationships with SUP, patients and relatives, and collaborated with SUP to develop and evaluate practices that supported relationships. Phase 2 used practices developed in Phase 1 to explore translation to a second setting. Methods were participant observation, interviews, story-telling and group discussions. Processes of sense-making and immersion crystallisation were used to analyse data with staff as co-analysts.
Results: Three themes described the processes in clinical practice to support positive relationships:
1. SUP or relatives intention to reach out towards, to try and connect with those with CI, was most meaningful for patients with CI. Successful transaction of information was less important.
2. Relatives and SUP used vicarious storytelling to share and maintain the uniqueness of the patient with CI.
3. Increasing SUP sensitivity to communicating beyond words – drawing on their emotional or tacit response during encounters.
Conclusion: This study has shown SUP using a humanising relationship-centred focus and wordless narratives support positive, therapeutic relationships. It offers new insights into practice developments beyond conventional supportive communication strategies.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 003 |
Pages (from-to) | 13-13 |
Number of pages | 1 |
Journal | International Journal of Stroke |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 4_SUPPL |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2019 |