There are a number of different family structures ranging from the grandmother taking the role of head of household to young boys being responsible for older female siblings. This may be a function of the culture, but it may also be due to circumstances created by restrictions in family members able to migrate. It is important to ascertain the family roles of both the patient and support people. This is particularly necessary because decision-making, receiving and disclosure of news to the patient, and orchestration of care may not be individual but group responsibilities. Some patients may wish to have relatives or friends accompany them for support and to relieve anxiety at all stages of the hospital experience.
Families play an important role in decreasing isolation and increasing hope for the patient.
Faith in the supporter can be a very important addition to faith in the healer. Very often, the family needs to be involved in discussions and treatment. This may be to a greater extent than you may expect. Communication with the family is very important. Check out if the patient is comfortable with family members being present, and if so, whenever possible, allow members of the family to accompany the person, and if this is not possible, explain tactfully why.