The importance of advancing international family nursing practice across the lifespan

It is well documented in nursing literature that partnering with families is vitally important for patients across the lifespan (Jerofke et al., 2024; Jerofke-Owen et al., 2022; Pentland et al., 2016). Vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and/or people experiencing neurodiversity, mental health illness or critical care rely heavily on their family to protect and advocate for their best interests (Foster et al., 2016; Tu & Liao, 2021). Nurses have a critical role to play in fostering a family centered, strength-based approach to enhance autonomy, empowerment, self-efficacy, hope and positive health outcomes for people and their families (Foster & Blamires, 2023; Gottlieb, 2014; Smith & Ford, 2008). In addition, a strength-based family nursing approach empowers families to navigate their individual health journey by maximising their strengths and abilities which in turn facilitates healing and positive health outcomes (Wells et al., 2014). When caring for people of any age, the whole family needs to be considered where appropriate and culturally sensitive therapeutic conversations need to include the child, caregivers, siblings, and/or extended family (Foster & Shields, 2020; Wonders & Affee, 2024).