Staff-Family Communication Methods in Long-Term Care Homes: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Context: Communication methods have been trialled to promote staff-family relations and facilitate person-centred care for residents living in long-term care homes. A review and synthesis of the common methods will inform the development of staff-family communication methods, policy and best practice guidelines. Objectives: 1) synthesise and summarise common communication methods, and types(s) of delivery, used for staff-family communication in long-term care homes; and 2) identify any challenges that impacted the implementation of the communication method(s). Methods: An integrative review was employed to incorporate papers with diverse research designs. It involved a comprehensive database and grey literature search, and study selection based on inclusion criteria. Data from included studies were extracted, coded and categorised by common communication method, delivery type(s) and challenges; studies were assessed for quality. Findings: A total of 3,183 potential papers were retrieved from seven international databases. Twenty-four original papers from six countries meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed and assessed for quality (M = 30; SD = 3.8). Common communication methods (structured education, meetings and takeaway resources) and challenges to implementation (confusion, misunderstanding and disagreement; lack of time; and technological difficulties) were identified and summarised. Limitations: The exclusion of papers published more than 20 years ago, geographical concentration of studies in high-income countries, and absence of stakeholder consultation may limit the generalisability and depth of the findings. Implications: Staff professional development and education, technology training and support, and accessibility of information in pamphlets and resources for family are crucial for facilitating staff-family communication in long-term care homes.