Accident and emergency nurses' perceptions and experiences of caring for families

This study is an exploration of accident and emergency (A & E) nurses' perceptions and experiences of caring for families of critically ill/injured patients and suddenly bereaved families. In this study a non-probability convenience sample of 54 nurses working in three A & E departments in Glasgow was studied. A descriptive study design was used and data were collected by use of a questionnaire. Closed questions were statistically analysed using SPSS and open questions were content-analysed into themes and items. Results from the study confirm that participants' perceive of their responsibility to include taking care of patients' families. Participants were familiar with study findings on families' needs and felt that it was important to meet their needs.