9.1.3 Spiritual care of nursing home residents: an action research project (417)
Natalie Yates-Bolton, Lecturer in Adult Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
Abstract:
Spiritual care should be part of an approach to care provision that enhances meaning and purpose in the lives of individuals, this study examines how the spiritual care needs of nursing home residents can be met. The rationale for choosing action research as the research method for the study is described. The congruence between the nature of spirituality and the philosophical underpinnings of action research is outlined; with definitions of both concepts citing empowerment and personal & social change as key features. (Canda and Furman 1999 and Bradbury and Reason 2001). Particular foci of the discussion are; gaining ethical approval for a study where the participants are considered to be vulnerable adults, the issue of being an ‘outside researcher’ and the perspectives of the older people who are co-researchers in this action research project. This study contributes knowledge to the growing area of health care of older people at a time where the human rights of older people in health care has been found to be in need of reinforcement to ensure dignity and self-respect which are central to the fulfilment of human rights (JCHR 2007). This action research project involves two nursing homes and includes health care assistants and qualified health care professionals as co-researchers, adding knowledge of the care providers educational development needs with regard to the provision of spiritual care, on which action can be taken. The role of power in research and in the relationship between services providers and service users in the context of the care of older people are illustrated using the initial findings from this action research project.
Recommended reading list:
- Bradbury H and Reason P (2001) Action research. An opportunity for revitalising research purposes and practices. Qualitative Social Work 2 (2) 155-175
- Canda E and Furman L (1999) Spiritual diversity in social work practice, The Free Press, New York
- JCHR -Joint Committee on Human Rights (2007) The human rights of older people in healthcare, Eighteenth report of session 2006-07, volume 1- Report and formal minutes, The Stationary Office, London
Source of Funding: N/
Amount in Funding: N/A
Biography:
Natalie Yates-Bolton is a Lecturer in Nursing with an interest in evidence based practice and spiritual care.She has worked as a nurse in the United Kingdom and Australia in settings where care of the older person was a key feature.