Haematology CNSs' understanding and application of person-centred care: a pilot qualitative evaluation

To explore the experiences of haematology clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) when delivering person-centred care (PCC). Particularly, the barriers and facilitators to its delivery, the specialists' understanding of PCC, and how they evaluate its success.

A total of eight participants were interviewed using semi-structured interviews that were conducted virtually. The interview questions generated qualitative data to explore the experiences of the haematology CNS team. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and stored in a password-protected folder. The data were then thematically analysed and coded to generate the findings.

All participants reported a shared understanding of PCC, supporting the current theories and literature surrounding it. They raised factors that acted as both facilitators and barriers towards the delivery of PCC. Additionally, the research identified a lack of awareness and use of methods to evaluate the effectiveness of the care the CNSs delivered.

This study offers an initial exploration into the experiences of haematology CNSs delivering PCC. This understanding could lead to the removal of barriers, thus enhancing the patient experience and quality of care. Recommendations are made to evaluate PCC through involving patients to share their views on what successful PCC means to them, and their ideas on how their nursing team might achieve this.