A QUALITATIVE INVESTIGATION INTO THE RECEPTIVITY TO HIP PROTECTIVE UNDERWEAR AMONG STAFF AND RESIDENTS OF RESIDENTIAL INSTITUTIONS

Aim. To explore the opinions and attitudes of staff and residents amon g selected licensed residential institutions in the Auckland region co ncerning hip protective underwear. Method. Six focus group discussions were held with principal nurse/managers, caregivers and residents fro m private hospitals, rest homes, and large combination complexes in th e Auckland region. A semi-structured interview schedule about hip prot ective underwear was used to obtain information relating to perceived effectiveness; acceptability; identification of Suitable wearers; barr iers to use; and strategies to enhance use. Results. Nursing staff wou ld be willing to super-vise the use of hip protective underwear and re sidents would be willing to wear it. Attention to certain design featu res could enhance overall acceptability. Conclusion. The findings that both staff and residents are receptive to the use of hip protective u nderwear as a strategy to prevent hip fractures is encouraging. Attent ion now needs to focus on ensuring that this product is available and accessible.