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Why do nurses abuse patients? Reflections from South African obstetric services
1CERSA, Women's Health, Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|January 7, 1999
Summary
Patient abuse by nurses in South Africa stems from complex factors beyond individual misconduct. Organizational issues, professional insecurities, and a lack of accountability contribute to this neglect, impacting patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Nursing Ethics
- Public Health
Background:
- Nurse-patient relationships are under-researched, particularly in developing nations.
- Nursing practice often deviates from the discourse of
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the reasons behind patient abuse by nurses in South African maternity services.
- To analyze the interplay of factors contributing to negative nurse-patient interactions.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research approach.
- 103 in-depth individual interviews with patients.
- Four group discussions with patients and staff.
Main Results:
- Patients reported clinical neglect, verbal, and physical abuse.
- Analysis revealed organizational issues, professional insecurities, and perceived need for control.
- Abuse was linked to asserting professional identity and social distance.
Conclusions:
- Patient abuse is perpetuated by systemic issues, lack of accountability, and weak competing ideologies.
- Interventions are needed to improve staff-patient relationships and nursing ethics.