Nurses' perspectives on barriers to family-centered cardiac care in Pakistan
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Family involvement is a critical component of person-centered cardiac care, contributing to improved patient outcomes and continuity of care. However, integrating family members into hospital-based cardiac care presents various challenges, particularly for frontline nurses. Understanding these barriers from the perspective of nursing staff is vital for informing health system reforms. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the barriers faced by nurses when involving families in cardiac patient care. An exploratory qualitative study design was conducted with 10 cardiac care nurses (7 females and 6 males; age range 26 to 46 years) from public and private tertiary hospitals in the twin cities of Pakistan between February 2024 to September, 2024. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Semi structure interview ewer conducted and thematic analysis was used to identify key themes reflecting nurses’ insights into the challenges of involving families in patient care. Five major themes emerged: (1) lack of institutional guidelines and structured protocols for family involvement; (2) emotional burden and role strain experienced by nurses during family interactions; (3) systemic constraints such as understaffing and time pressure; and (4) communication challenges due to sociocultural differences and unclear role expectations (5) cultural and ethical barriers in nurse-family dynamics. Nurses expressed a desire for clearer policy direction, more training, and institutional support. The study underscores the need for health system-level interventions to strengthen the role of families in cardiac care. Addressing the identified barriers can promote more inclusive, equitable, and effective care delivery models that support both patients and health professionals.
Source: SSM - Health Systems
Institution: National University of Medical Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,490
OpenAlex ID: W4415547613