Abstract
PURPOSE
To suggest appropriate classification labels and definitions that accurately reflect family presence.
METHODS
Based on a comprehensive review of the literature, content analysis of selected case studies was performed. Themes and details were identified. Concept analysis was then performed sequentially for the implied nursing diagnoses, outcomes, and interventions to determine labels and definitions, based on the discovered themes and details.
FINDINGS
Family nursing care is oriented toward diagnosis and treatment of family responses to illness within the family unit. It is clear from the current literature that many families wish to be present when a family member undergoes resuscitation; however, no nursing diagnosis exists for this identifiable response to an acute crisis within the family unit. Based on the data gathered, a family nursing diagnosis, “supportive family,” is proposed. Taxonomically this diagnosis best fits in the Role Relationships domain of the NANDA Taxonomy II. Additionally, a new label needs to be created in NIC within the Family domain, under the class of “life span care” labeled family presence facilitation. The goal of family presence facilitation as a family systems nursing intervention is to ease normal grieving, support normal family coping, and empower families. NOC includes several outcomes that may be appropriate for evaluating individual and family responses to family presence facilitation; however, an outcome focused on the specific assessment findings diagnostic of a supportive family, labeled Family Member Support, within the Family Health domain is proposed.
CONCLUSIONS
Further research must be done to validate the nursing classification language appropriate for this practice. Additionally, research using these proposed terms must be performed to demonstrate both clinical usefulness and the outcomes actually achieved. A method for tracking outcomes and identifying problems must be developed, and the data captured must be broadly shared.
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