Concept Analysis of Family Participation in Hospitalized Patient Care: Using Hybrid Models

Abstract

Background: Family participation in patient care is critical for delivering quality care, and many interventions in the healthcare system have been dedicated to improving this complex process. There is no agreement about what this participation means and how it should be conducted. The current study aims to clarify the concept of family participation in hospitalized patient care. Materials and Methods: This study used a hybrid model and a three‑step concept analysis. In the theoretical phase, credential databases were searched to retrieve studies published from 1990 to 2022. In the fieldwork phase, semistructured interviews were conducted with six patients, six family members, and five healthcare workers. In the last phase, data from these steps were analyzed using conventional content analysis based on the Graneheim and Lundman approach. Results: According to the final analysis, ‘family participation in hospitalized patient care’ is a centric‑process multidimensional phenomenon that includes involvement in comprehensive patient care and healthcare decision‑making. This partnership is based on “interactions”, “information exchange”, “collaboration between families and healthcare teams”, and “support from the healthcare system”. If it is implemented in a planned and coordinated manner, family participation can lead to positive consequences for the healthcare system and favorable outcomes for hospitalized patients. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the concept of family participation as well as its features and factors affecting its correct implementation. Healthcare providers need to boost their knowledge regarding this type of care and improve clinical practice in this area.