1. Culture
1.1. entails values, norms, beliefs and spiritual aspects of life
1.2. family hierarchy - male dominance, single parent..
1.3. religion
1.3.1. gender differences - female patients and male health professionals
1.4. pain expression - can be a sign of weakness
1.5. must always respect and work with, not against culture
2. Anxiety
2.1. anxiety in the medical setting is very common for both patients and their families/loved ones
2.1.1. potential for surgical risks and complications
2.1.2. surgery may have been organised quickly due to urgency - lack of time to comprehend situation
2.1.3. life changes - finances, employment, family dynamics
2.2. we need to be aware of the symptoms/potential to suffer anxiety
2.3. active communication/listening
2.4. important that an understanding and supportive environment is provided for the family to assist with managing their anxiety
3. EDUCATION
3.1. occurs throughout entire surgical journey - pre, peri and post
3.1.1. pre; patient fasting, ceasing certain medications, discharge planning
3.1.2. peri; what surgery entails, duration, expected outcomes, risks
3.1.3. post; recovery expectations, what is needed for home care
3.2. great amount of knowledge is relayed to family, often at a quick rate
3.3. every interaction with patient is an opportunity to educate, need to make sure it is effective though
3.3.1. education needs to be relevant and timely, avoid educating when family is distressed unless the information is used to reassure
3.3.2. reinforce verbal information with written instructions
3.3.3. allow opportunities for questions to be asked, be an active listener
4. Burden
4.1. financial costs
4.2. post-operative and home care
4.3. taking time off work
4.4. time spent travelling, seeing health professionals, etc
4.5. potential loss of loved one - whats next for the family?
4.6. need to develop strategies to assist with reducing burden
4.6.1. organising home care nurses
4.6.2. organising equipment for home - commode chairs, lifters..
4.6.3. tell family to seek centreline benefits to assist with finances (carers allowance, etc..)