1st Edition

Supporting Families and Carers A Nursing Perspective

By Mary E. Braine, Julie Wray Copyright 2016
    204 Pages 10 B/W Illustrations
    by Routledge

    Understanding the perspective of carers is an essential aspect of nursing. Supporting Families and Carers: A Nursing Perspective offers insights into the fundamental principles of caring for families and carers irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or religion.

    This book discusses the concepts and theories that underpin our understanding of the behaviours and feelings that families and caregivers may experience. While the book covers theoretical dimensions to understand the caregiving experience, it also provides practical perspectives for nursing and is a unique resource to inform nursing practice and learning at all levels.

    The book covers topics such as the stress process, stressors and how they relate to caregiving as well as actions and resources to help alter stressful situations. Interventions discussed include training and education programs, problem-solving skills, information technology–based support and formal approaches to planning care that take into account the specific needs of carers.

    Carers are a central aspect of contemporary health services, and working with carers is fundamental to the delivery of high-quality person- and family-centred nursing care. This invaluable resource helps nurses to work effectively in partnership with patients and their carers.

    Context of the Carer
    Introduction
    Historical Background
    Definitions of Carers
    Awareness of Carers
    Caregiving Tasks/Responsibilities
    Chapter Summary
    References
    Useful Links

    The Family
    Introduction
    Context
    Familism
    Family Structure
    Cohesion and Togetherness
    Family Partnerships
    Chapter Summary
    References

    Adjusting and Adapting to Caregiving
    Introduction
    Stress Models
    Double ABCX Model
    Resiliency
    Chapter Summary
    References

    Coping Process and Coping Strategies
    Introduction
    Coping Styles and Strategies
    Hope as a Coping Strategy
    Coping Ability: Sense of Coherence and General Resistance Resources
    Chapter Summary
    References

    Impact of Caring on Families and Carers
    Introduction
    Physical Impact
    Psychosocial Impact
    Caregiver Strain and Burden
    Depression
    Loss and Grief Associated with Caregiving
    Chronic Sorrow
    Impact on Family Roles and Relationships
    Positive Outcomes of Caregiving
    Chapter Summary
    References

    Providing Support and Interventions for Families and Carers
    Introduction
    Assessment of Families and Caregivers’ Needs
    Interventions to Support Families and Carers
    Fostering Hope
    Chapter Summary
    References
    Useful Links

    Working with Families and Carers
    Introduction
    Context of Hospitalisation
    Relationships between Nurse and Caregivers
    Chapter Summary
    References
    Useful Links

    Biography

    Mary E. Braine, D.Prof, MSc, PGCHE, BSc (Hons), Diploma in Nursing (London), RN, senior lecturer, School of Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work and Social Science, University of Salford, UK

    Julie Wray, PhD, MSc, PGCHE, RN, RM, ONC, senior lecturer/user and carer lead, School of Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work and Social Science, University of Salford, UK

    "It takes a wide brush stroke across many key issues in caregiving, with a solid background in concept and theory application of family, coping, loss, stress, and resilience. A significant strength of the book is its "Thinking Box"—a set of questions for readers to pause and consider in understanding the possible meanings of or applications to situations. Other strengths are its key points, stories, and straightforward presentation of theory. It is an easy read for those unfamiliar with family caregiving and hits the prominent components of family caregiving. With this title, instructors will have ready tools built in for further exploration. This work is a good reference to lead graduate students to seek new discoveries … Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through professionals" – Choice