Clinical application research through reflection, interpretation and new understanding - a hermeneutic design

Area of Science:

• Caring Science
• Nursing Home Research
• Gerontology

Background:

• Bridging theoretical knowledge and clinical practice in caring science is a longstanding challenge.
• Good clinical practice integration into theory requires robust methodologies.
• Dignity in nursing home settings is a critical aspect of elderly care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elaborate and discuss the methodology of clinical application research.
• To explore the meaning of dignity and indignity in the daily lives of nursing home residents.
• To identify ethical ways to preserve dignity for older people in care settings.

Main Methods:

• Grounded in hermeneutical design inspired by Gadamer's philosophy.
• Utilized data from a research project 'A life in dignity' involving nursing home residents, family caregivers, and healthcare providers.
• Employed qualitative methods, including 56 individual and 18 focus-group interviews with 40 staff members.

Main Results:

• Identified the multifaceted meanings of dignity and indignity in nursing home daily life.
• Provided knowledge on preserving dignity for older people through reflection and interpretation.
• Demonstrated the value of clinical application research in generating new understanding and ethical approaches to care.

Conclusions:

• Clinical application research is a relevant methodology for nursing home settings.
• The methodology opens new possibilities for performing dignified care for older adults.
• The findings contribute to advancing ethical caring practices and preserving dignity in long-term care.