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Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
2001
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Graduate Nursing
First Advisor
Shirley Roddy
Keywords
rural family medical care, medical emergencies, rural family South Dakota attitudes
Abstract
Living in remote rural areas offers a very special way of life. However, obtaining healthcare in these remote areas is challenging, especially when a medical emergency occurs. Very little research has been conducted regarding emergency health care in rural United States.
This qualitative research study looked at the experiences of rural families during healthcare emergencies. Nine remote rural families were asked to tell their stories of what happened during their medical emergencies. While each story was unique, six common themes or concepts were identified.
Major concepts included hardiness, access to care, spirituality, community, family cohesiveness, and risk for injury. Access to care barriers include distance, poor road conditions, and availability of the emergency medical system (EMS). A strong sense of thankfulness was present. When a traumatic event occurs in rural areas, the neighbors will come. This strong sense of community helps families cope during difficult times. Families in this study who worked hard together on farms and ranches seem to have developed a special closeness. This serves them well when they ready need each other. The risk for injury is always present. The use of large, complex machinery, large animals and adverse weather all contribute to this.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Rural families -- Medical care -- South Dakota.
Medical emergencies -- South Dakota.
Rural families -- South Dakota -- Attitudes.
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
57
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Rights
Copyright © 2001 Billie Hague. All rights reserved
Recommended Citation
Hague, Billie Jo, "The Lived Experience of Rural Families During Medical Emergencies" (2001). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 915.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd/915