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Promoting privacy and dignity for older patients in hospital

Jo Birrell Modern matron, Elderly care services, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge;

Dave Thomas Matron for elderly care, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow;

Cathy Alban Jones Head of education, Arthur Rank Hospice, Cambridge

This article defines dignity and suggests some practical guidance on ways that dignity can be a priority in daily clinical practice, drawing on work undertaken at Addenbrooke’s Hospital (Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust). It then focuses on the dignity of older patients receiving palliative care in hospital. The discussion includes hypothetical scenarios which the authors hope will resonate with the reader and help to stimulate change within clinical areas.

Nursing Standard. 20, 18, 41-46. doi: 10.7748/ns2006.01.20.18.41.c4037

Correspondence

jo.birrell@addenbrookes.nhs.uk

Peer review

This article has been subject to double blind peer review

Keywords :

Dignity - Older patients - Palliative care - Privacy