Satisfaction with nursing care in drug users: the evolution of a scale

ABSTRACT

Objectives

To identify the degree of satisfaction with nursing care, the significant variables and contribute to the evolution of the scale.

Methods

Descriptive, correlational, cross study, with 180 drug users. Data collected using the scale called “Satisfaction of users with the Nursing Health Center₂₆”, between February and December 2012 in three treatment units in the region of Lisbon and Vale do Tejo, Portugal.

Results

Users indicated 83.3% satisfaction. The dimension “Information individualization” was the most marked (98.5%). The more stability in the programs, abstinence from stimulants and benzodiazepines and more nursing interventions, the greater the satisfaction. Better working conditions, specializing in mental health, younger ages and less experience of nurses also contributed to satisfaction. Four items of the scale were extracted, assuming new SUCECS₂₂ designation.

Conclusions

Satisfaction was high, influenced by structural variables of users, nurses and working conditions. The scale has proved suitable for assessment in this population.

Substance-related disorders; Nursing; Patient satisfaction; Mental health; Working conditions