DQ What is a definition of family that encompasses the different family structures prevalent today NRS 429
The definition of family that encompasses the different family structure prevalent today is made up of many different units that an individual feels is part of their inner circle whom they reside with and rely on for support. A current family structure is more than having a genetic link or a traditional family such as mother/father and children. Family is “not only people related by blood or marriage, but also close friends, partners, companions, and others whom patients would want as part of their care team (The Institute of Medicine, 2014).”
It is important to acknowledge nontraditional family structures to ensure you build trust with the patient and family. When providing care to a patient, if family is present, it is important to acknowledge and know who they are to the patient. If a patient feels like you are not engaging with the family, they may feel judge, undervalued and less likely to follow the plan of care. A patient’s illness not only affects the patient but the family as a whole (Davidson et al., 2017). It is important when meeting a patient alone to assess their current family structure. Building an open line of communication is important. If a patient is fearful to discuss their current living situation, their care may be affected. If a patient feels they are free to discuss, their living structure, regardless if it’s traditional, or nontraditional, (LBGTQ +), homeless, living on a compound or a single parent house hold, it is important that they feel they can discuss this with you freely and are not being judge. They may not talk about an illness or symptoms they are having due to feeling looked down on.
The family systems theory can be used to better understand the interactions of a modern family by looking at the family as a whole. If there is a change in one family member, it can have a positive or negative impact on the family unit. “Observing or understanding the complexity and emotions of the family system lends to understanding of the individual (Yoder et al., 2016).”
Resources
Davidson, J.E., Aslakson, R.A., Long, A.C., Puntillo, K.A., Kross, E. K., Hart, J.,Netzer, G.
(2017). Guidelines for family-centered care in the neonatal, pediatric, and adult ICU.
Critical Care Medicine 45(1), 103-128.
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