NAVIGATING HOMECARE: RELATIONSHIPS, CHALLENGES AND EXPERIENCES OF NURSES AND GENERAL DUTY ASSISTANTS

Abstract

Home healthcare has become an essential component of patient-centred care, with nurses and General Duty Assistants (GDAs) playing a pivotal role in delivering continuous care to patients in home settings. Despite their significant contribution, caregivers frequently encounter emotional, professional, and organizational challenges that influence their wellbeing and quality of care. This study aimed to explore the experiences of nurses and GDAs working in home healthcare, with particular emphasis on their relationships with patients, patients’ families, and homecare agencies. A qualitative research design was adopted using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving 30 participants (15 nurses and 15 GDAs) employed in home healthcare agencies. Data were analysed through thematic content analysis using ATLAS.ti software. The findings revealed that caregivers experienced both professional fulfilment and emotional strain. Positive relationships with patients fostered attachment, companionship, and job satisfaction, whereas aggressive behaviour, lack of respect, expectations to perform domestic chores, and emotional exhaustion negatively affected their wellbeing. Interactions with family members were found to be both supportive and challenging, while agency-related concerns included inadequate remuneration, lack of appreciation, limited career growth, poor communication, job insecurity, and insufficient organizational support. The study concludes that strengthening organizational policies, ensuring fair remuneration, enhancing training opportunities, clarifying job responsibilities, and promoting respectful communication among patients, families, and agencies are essential to improve caregiver wellbeing, job satisfaction, and the quality of home healthcare services.