Qualitative Exploration of Medical Nurses' Perceptions of Patient-Centred Care: A Study in Medical Wards of Three Hospitals.

Abstract

Aim: To explore medical nurses' perceptions of patient-centred care (PCC) and their experiences of patient-centredness in adult medical wards of three hospitals.

Design: We employed a descriptive qualitative design with focus group discussions (FGDs). This design suited the study's objectives of exploring medical nurses' perceptions of PCC in adult medical wards of three selected hospitals and is ideal for collecting data on a phenomenon or experiences of participants.

Methods: The method for data collection was FGDs, which enabled an interactive and dynamic exploration of medical nurses' perceptions of PCC. These data were collected from Northern Ghana in sub-Saharan Africa and analysed using the Six-phased Thematic Analysis proposed by Braun and Clarke.

Results: The study revealed that medical nurses conceptualise PCC as a holistic approach to nursing care involving respect for the patient's individuality, cultural considerations, and effective communication. Perceptions of patient-centred practices highlight the importance of caring behaviours, collaboration, information dissemination, and holistic care. While PCC was perceived as positively affecting nursing care quality and nurse job satisfaction, it could increase workload. The predominant nursing models practised in the selected wards were task-based and "cubicle nursing". Successful PCC requires strong organisational support, adequate staffing, improved resources, and continuous patient-centred training.

Reporting method: Adherence to EQUATOR guidelines was achieved by adopting the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR).

Patient or public contribution: No patient or public contribution.