Perceptions of Family Care-givers toward Use of Physical Restraints: An Application of Q-methodology

Abstract

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to identify on the perceptions of family care-givers toward use of physical restraints according to their values, beliefs, and perceptions using Q methodology. Methods: Thirty-three family care-givers classified 41 selected Q-statements into 9 points standard. The obtained data were analyzed by using a pc QUANL program. Results: Principal component analysis identified 4types of the perceptions of family care-givers toward the use of physical restraints. Type I is 'Rational accepted', which means that they perceived the restraints are essential therapeutic devices and had cooperative attitude to use of medical staffs' restraints. Type II is 'Sardonic sensibility', which means that they have a negative and a cynical attitude to use of physical restraints. Type III is 'Ambivalent', which means that they have conflicts between rationality and emotion, and type IV is 'Practical claim of a right', which means they insist that patients and their family members must be provided with a detailed explanation regarding the application of physical restraints. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that perceptions toward the use of physical restraints among family care-givers should be understood for patients' safety and dignity in medical circumstance. Based on the results, this study will be useful in developing the customized nursing intervention for supporting family care-givers' subjectivity considering the Korean context.