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Perceptions of hospital-based Registered Nurses of care and discharge planning for people who are homeless : A qualitative study
Grech, Elizabeth Raeburn, Toby
Grech, Elizabeth
Raeburn, Toby
Author
Abstract
Background
Links among homelessness, poor health and frequent hospitalisation are familiar to health services worldwide. Despite this, limited research has explored hospital-based Registered Nurses’ perspectives of homelessness healthcare.
Aim
This study explored the perspectives of hospital-based Registered Nurses, regarding provision of person-centred care for people who are homeless.
Methods
Interviews were conducted with twelve Registered Nurses working in a tertiary metropolitan hospital. Interview transcripts were analysed using a deductive thematic approach guided by Deci and Ryan’s self-determination theory (SDT).
Findings
Five themes emerged regarding provision of person-centred care for people who are homeless. First, people who are homeless frequently access the hospital as a safe place. Second, nurses often perceive homeless health problems as multifaceted and difficult to manage. Third, stigma creates a barrier to the delivery of hospital-based homelessness healthcare. Fourth, it is important to provide people who are homeless with a sense of choice. Fifth, there is a lack of suitable discharge options and connection between the hospital and community services.
Discussion
If care pathways within a hospital are not designed to adequately address the complex needs of people who are homeless, they are vulnerable to frequent re-admissions and extended lengths of stay. A non-judgmental attitude and providing a sense of choice are important approaches for hospital-based Registered Nurses when working with people who are homeless.
Conclusion
Hospital-based homelessness healthcare presents many challenges. The perceptions of Registered Nurses provide insight into the daily experience of caring for people experiencing homelessness within a hospital setting.
Keywords
homeless, nursing, discharge planning, person-centred care, hospital, healthcare
Date
2021
Type
Journal article
Journal
Collegian
Book
Volume
28
Issue
1
Page Range
1-9
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled
Notes
© 2020 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd.