Alana Heafala1,2, Lana J Mitchell3,4, Lauren Ball1,2. 1. School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, 1 Parklands Dr, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia. 2. Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, 1 Parklands Dr, QLD, 4215, Southport, Australia. 3. School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, 1 Parklands Dr, Southport, QLD, 4215, Australia. lana.mitchell@griffith.edu.au. 4. Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, 1 Parklands Dr, QLD, 4215, Southport, Australia. lana.mitchell@griffith.edu.au.
Abstract
PURPOSE: Dietitians are important members of eating disorder treatment teams. Previous research indicates little is known about the experience of receiving nutrition care for eating disorders. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of consumers and carers regarding the care received from primary care dietitians for eating disorders. METHODS: This study qualitatively explored the perceptions of individuals aged ≥ 15 years, who (i) identified as having an eating disorder or (ii) had cared for someone with an eating disorder, and had received care from a dietitian in a primary care setting. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes from interview transcripts. Synthesized member checking was utilized to assess whether the identified themes resonated with participants' experiences. Twenty-four individuals (21 consumers, 3 carers) participated in a semi-structured interview. Seventeen participants completed member checking and all supported the identified themes and subthemes. RESULTS: Three themes emerged inductively from the data: (1) valuing a person-centered approach to dietetic care; (2) the therapeutic alliance is central to engaging in dietetic care; and (3) sharing the complex journey. CONCLUSIONS: This study advances the understanding of the aspects of dietetic care perceived as most helpful by consumers and carers. These insights highlight the importance of person-centeredness, empathy, trust and collaboration within eating disorder care. The findings can be used by dietitians and health professionals to inform practice. Further research is needed to understand how dietitians can be supported to provide optimal nutrition care to people and families impacted by eating disorders. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V. Qualitative study.
PURPOSE: Dietitians are important members of eating disorder treatment teams. Previous research indicates little is known about the experience of receiving nutrition care for eating disorders. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of consumers and carers regarding the care received from primary care dietitians for eating disorders. METHODS: This study qualitatively explored the perceptions of individuals aged ≥ 15 years, who (i) identified as having an eating disorder or (ii) had cared for someone with an eating disorder, and had received care from a dietitian in a primary care setting. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes from interview transcripts. Synthesized member checking was utilized to assess whether the identified themes resonated with participants' experiences. Twenty-four individuals (21 consumers, 3 carers) participated in a semi-structured interview. Seventeen participants completed member checking and all supported the identified themes and subthemes. RESULTS: Three themes emerged inductively from the data: (1) valuing a person-centered approach to dietetic care; (2) the therapeutic alliance is central to engaging in dietetic care; and (3) sharing the complex journey. CONCLUSIONS: This study advances the understanding of the aspects of dietetic care perceived as most helpful by consumers and carers. These insights highlight the importance of person-centeredness, empathy, trust and collaboration within eating disorder care. The findings can be used by dietitians and health professionals to inform practice. Further research is needed to understand how dietitians can be supported to provide optimal nutrition care to people and families impacted by eating disorders. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V. Qualitative study.
Authors: Lorraine Ivancic; Sarah Maguire; Jane Miskovic-Wheatley; Christopher Harrison; Natasha Nassar Journal: Aust N Z J Psychiatry Date: 2021-03-15 Impact factor: 5.744
Authors: Phillipa Hay; David Chinn; David Forbes; Sloane Madden; Richard Newton; Lois Sugenor; Stephen Touyz; Warren Ward Journal: Aust N Z J Psychiatry Date: 2014-11 Impact factor: 5.744