Meaning of caring in pediatric intensive care unit from the perspective of parents : A qualitative study

Janet Yvonne Mattsson, Maria Arman, Maaret Castren, Maria Forsner

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

When children are critically ill, parents still strive to be present and participate in the care of their child. Pediatric intensive care differs from other realms of pediatric care as the nature of care is technically advanced and rather obstructing than encouraging parental involvement or closeness, either physically or emotionally, with the critically ill child. The aim of this study was to elucidate the meaning of caring in the pediatric intensive care unit from the perspective of parents. The design of this study followed Benner's interpretive phenomenological method. Eleven parents of seven children participated in observations and interviews. The following aspects of caring were illustrated in the themes arising from the findings: being a bridge to the child on the edge, building a sheltered atmosphere, meeting the child's needs, and adapting the environment for family life. The overall impression is that the phenomenon of caring is experienced exclusively when it is directed toward the exposed child. The conclusion drawn is that caring is present when providing expert physical care combined with fulfilling emotional needs and supporting continuing daily parental care for the child in an inviting environment.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)336-345
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Child Health Care
Volume18
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014-Aug-12
Externally publishedYes

Swedish Standard Keywords

  • Nursing (30305)

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