Perspectives of registered nurses towards communication with family members of hospitalized older people with a tracheostomy: a qualitative study

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore the perspectives of registered nurses towards communication with family members of older people with a tracheostomy. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative design was used. Ten participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were used in collecting data. Data were analysed by thematic analysis. Findings The four themes identified were as follows: communication by considering time difference; considering factors related to effective communication, either family member–related factors or registered nurse–related factors; strategies of communicating to support family members, such as giving an opportunity to ask for accurate information, communicating to build self-confidence and communicating through cases; and using the art of communication by speaking slowly and clearly, using colloquialisms, being steady and calm, as well as using positive language. Practical implications Having strategies and using the art of communication are important to help family members in obtaining accurate information and in building self-confidence in the care of older people. Originality/value The paper indicates that registered nurses consider factors related to communication, and they gave more information to family members using effective strategies and the art of communication. Therefore, effective communication training to nursing teams should be performed to promote adherence to treatment and family members’ satisfaction.