Interactions of people with disabilities with nursing staff during hospitalization

This study explored experiences of people with disabilities in their interactions with nurses and their perceptions about care during hospital stays. Although inadequate primary health care and screening have been identified as major issues for people with disabilities, less is known about nursing care. One study revealed that people with disabilities have strong negative reactions to the idea of hospitalization because of lack of awareness of nursing staff about their needs during hospital stays. Lack of quality care by nurses has resulted in catastrophic outcomes, including injury and even death of patients with disabilities. Six focus groups of 35 people with disabilities were held; the groups ranged in size from 4 to 10 participants who were recruited from a wheelchair community, a center for independent living, and an educational program for women with disabilities. Participants had physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities. After providing written consent, participants were asked about their previous positive and negative experiences/encounters with nursing staff. Audiotaped interviews were transcribed and validated for accuracy. Content analysis was used to identify recurring themes. Four major themes emerged: poor communication on the part of nursing staff, compromised nursing care, negative attitudes of nursing staff toward people with disabilities, and fears of people with disabilities during hospital stays. They identified the need for extra vigilance on their part or that of their family to protect them, particularly if they had difficulty communicating. They recommended that nurses and nursing staff be taught how to interact with patients, particularly those with impaired communication.