Stress Management for Families Caring for Loved Ones in Hospitals

Abstract

Reflection: Stress management When confronted with sickness, family is the most vulnerable when it comes emotionally and financially. It renders most family members stigmatized and weak. It is a traumatic and challenging moment, especially when it comes to risky approaches such as surgery. Health care providers need to possess stress management skills when encountered with such situations. According to (Eaton et al. 2011), studies have indicated that families caring for individuals with mental illness suffer from increased stress levels and find it difficult to cope with their situation. Nurses are faced with the adversity of dealing with family in a complex and stressful situation. Nurses have a role in guiding the family in the decision-making process and observing the family responses to their loved one's changing conditions. Communication skills are the primary tool nurses should possess. The nurse also can acknowledge their feelings uniquely and honestly. They can also interact and build a rapport by asking them about their loved ones and what they need at the moment. It is also essential to give family space they need to grief during a loss or contemplate when in a chronic situation. Everyone has a way of expressing feelings to their loved ones; some laugh, weep, or joke about it. Nurses should not judge them. It is also essential to reply to any question they need to know even after leaving the hospital. Nurses are also required to care for their own emotions first, affecting them when trying to support others. Most nurses are not equipped with these skills during their education and need to seek professional help. The family has a significant role in caring for their loved ones. Their efforts, combined with those of nurses, combat psychological and emotional issues. Reference Eaton, P. M., Davis, B. L.,...