Coping processes of Taiwanese families during the postdischarge period for an elderly family member with hip fracture

The purposes of this study were to develop a conceptual framework explaining the coping processes of Taiwanese families after hospital discharge of an elderly family member with hip fracture and to use the Roy adaptation model to examine their interdependence relationships. In-depth, face-to-face interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed by grounded theory method. Findings revealed that a harmony between receiving and giving relationships was maintained by care receivers and caregivers during the postdischarge period to achieve an outcome of adaptation in their relationships. By understanding these coping processes, nurses can assist families to enhance adaptation.