Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the needs of the home health client as perceived by the client, the primary family caregiver, and the primary home health nurse case manager. The similarities and differences of these perceptions were determined. Also, the influence of socioeconomic factors and health locus of control on these perceptions were explored. The theoretical framework which guided this study was Orem's (1985) self-care model. This study is a replication of original research by Smith (1986). Using a descriptive, comparative design the convenience sample was of 21 clients, their family caregivers, and their nurse case managers was assessed through a freestanding home health agency in a large Southern metropolitan area. The predictor variables, socioeconomic status and health locus of control, were measured through the use of two survey questionnaires, the Socioeconomic Status Index and the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scales, respectively. The criterion variable, perception of needs, was measured through the use of the Modified Molter Survey of Needs questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis was achieved through the use of frequencies. Analysis of Variance, Fischer's Least Significant Difference, and Spearman's rho coefficient test. Findings indicated clients, families, and nurses were harmonious in their perceptions of physical and knowledge needs. However, client-family dyads were more harmonious in their perceptions of feeling and caring needs than were nurse-client dyads. These perceptions may have been influenced by locus of control and socioeconomic status, as the nurses were significantly more internally oriented than the externally oriented clients and families and the nurse were significantly higher on the socioeconomic status index than were the clients and families.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Department

Graduate Nursing

Degree Date

8-1-1990

Publication Number

27919766

First Advisor

Dr. Virginia Cora

Second Advisor

B. J. Landis

Third Advisor

Laura Smith

Document Type

Thesis

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Nursing Commons

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