[Family nursing interventions during hospitalization]

More and more, families are being included in the nursing process. However, defining family nursing interventions still presents a challenge. Specific knowledge, abilities and attitudes are required to intervene with more than one person at a time. Observing the family in action enables the nurse to identify specific needs that generally fall into one of four types: cognitive, affective, physical and spiritual. These needs are then validated with family members to develop an appropriate care plan. If the care plan is based on Roy's model, family behaviors and contributing factors will be noted. If Orem's model is chosen, family abilities will be analysed to identify the problem solving difficulties family members have. A nursing diagnosis will then be made. As well, co-evolving objectives will take into account elements of change theory such as allowing time for change, being conscious of everyone's perception of the problem and not expecting every family member to change in the same way. Nurses play various roles with families. They offer support, and act as role models and educators. Their responsibilities can be shared with colleagues through care plans and nursing notes.