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 among selected licensed residential institutions in the Auckland region concerning hip protective underwear.
METHOD: Six focus group discussions were held with principal nurse/managers, caregivers and residents from private hospitals, rest homes, and large combination complexes in the Auckland region. A semi-structured interview schedule about hip protective underwear was used to obtain information relating to perceived effectiveness; acceptability; identification of suitable wearers; barriers to use; and strategies to enhance use.
RESULTS: Nursing staff would be willing to supervise the use of hip protective underwear and residents would be willing to wear it. Attention to certain design features could enhance overall acceptability.
CONCLUSION: The findings that both staff and residents are receptive to the use of hip protective underwear as a strategy to prevent hip fractures is encouraging. Attention now needs to focus on ensuring that this product is available and accessible.