| dc.description.abstract | This thesis explores nurses’ conceptualisation of dementia and discusses the
relationship between these understandings and nursing practice. Using the reflexive
sociological approach of French scholar Pierre Bourdieu, the study seeks to advance
practice through the enhancement of theoretical understandings. Data were collected
in a range of inpatient clinical areas in Scotland using focus groups, individual
interviews and observation. A range of nurses contributed, reflecting views and
understandings from inpatient areas run by both general medical and mental health
services.
Nurses were found to conceptualise dementia in four main ways; as a disease, as a
memory problem, as confusion and finally as a journey. These four
conceptualisations are addressed in turn and the ways in which they inform and relate
to practice are discussed. Limitations to practice arising from the nurses
conceptualisations are also highlighted. Dominant approaches to care are outlined
throughout the thesis, with the medical model, individualised care, person-centred
dementia care and palliative care all being discussed in light of the nurses’
understandings of dementia.
Throughout the thesis the work of Pierre Bourdieu shapes the analysis and
presentation of data. Relationships within the social world, structures of society and
of inpatient settings along with explicit reflection on the personal experiences and
position of the researcher inform the work. Concepts of field, capital and habitus
permeate the discussion and help to explore issues and understandings from both
practice and theory.
While literature on specific approaches to dementia care, treatments and relationships
between patients, carers and family members form a substantial and growing body of
dementia literature, information about nurses and their understandings of dementia
has previously been unexplored. This study demonstrates the range of views held by
nurses and the influences of education, structures of the clinical setting and ward
culture in shaping those understandings. The importance of nurses’
conceptualisations of dementia in shaping their care of patients is demonstrated
through the analysis and has the potential to inform and enhance practice
development for dementia patients in a variety of inpatient settings. | en |
