Open AccessPatient Satisfaction With Caring at a District Hospital in Malawi
Author(s) -
Brian Nkwinda,
Wanda Jacobs,
Charlené Downing
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
global journal of health science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1916-9744
pISSN - 1916-9736
DOI - 10.5539/gjhs.v11n1p15
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , nursing , patient satisfaction , medicine , qualitative property , qualitative research , family medicine , psychology , social science , machine learning , sociology , computer science
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate and understand patient satisfaction with caring at a district hospital in Malawi.
MATERIALS & METHODS: The study used a mixed methods design, employing the sequential explanatory strategy. A total of 120 adult patients completed a survey questionnaire (phase one), and of these, two patients were followed up with individual interviews (phase two).
RESULTS: Data were analyzed using statistical procedures, thematic analysis and an integration process of quantitative and qualitative findings. Highest patient satisfaction (90.6%; M=4.53; SD=0.879) occurred with nurses’ presence; while lowest satisfaction (37.4%; M=1.87; SD=1.710) was seen with patient teaching. Patients’ lived experiences revealed that nurses’ demonstration of presence and professional proficiency were critical to caring.
UNIQUE CONTRIBUTION TO THEORY, PRACTICE AND POLICY: To enhance improved caring, there was a need for nurses to increase personal presence, promote patient involvement in decision-making, and demonstrate competent confidence.