Negotiating Partnerships with Older People

Book excerpt: This title was first published in 2001. Much discussion takes place concerning the nature of the relationship between nurses and older people in hospital and there have been many concerns expresses in United Kingdom policy documents about the quality of care for older people in hospitals. Autonomy is considered to be one of the central ethical principles of health care practice and as such is a significantly relevant concept for nurses. This book presents the results of a study undertaken with nurses who work with older people in hospitals. Issues arising from the study include the effects of institutional constraints on autonomy. A framework for person-centred practice has been developed from this work that emphasizes the values of the individual and their needs, wants and desires. The role of the nurse in facilitating practice that respects an individual's values is outlined, and the importance of nurses in negotiating relationships with older people is also emphasized.