Investigation and analysis of life quality and uncertainty feeling in illness among the families of patients in Neurosurgery Department

Abstract

Objective To investigate and analyze uncertainty in illness and life quality among family members of patients in Neurosurgery Department, and explore the corresponding nursing. Methods A total of 125 family members were collected as the research object. Using The Mishel uncertainty in illness scale, medical outcomes study simplified 36 item scale (SF-36), the investigation and analysis of uncertainty in illness and quality of life had been done. Results The total score of uncertainty feeling in illness was (89.47±10.92), of which average single clause obtained (2.99±0.38). The clarity acquired the highest score, but shortage of information was lowest score. For each dimensions of life quality, the score of body function reached highest (90.57±13.31) comparing with lowest score (60.31±32.63) for affection role. Conclusions The uncertainty level in illness of patient′s family members in Neurosurgery Department is high, mainly for the uncertain and unpredictability, and the quality of life is affected. Nursing staffs should pay increasing attention to the family members of patients by the health education, communication, corresponding strategy guidance and other measures, to help families to reduce the uncertainty in illness, so as to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Key words: Neurosurgery Department; Family member; Quality of life; Uncertainty in illness