A Loss Experience of a Grandmother of a Grandchild Withα-Thalassemia

Abstract

The prevalence of thalassemia in Taiwan is relative high. The main problem of thalassemia is not able to produce stable hemoglobin, so it needs treatments of regular blood transfusions, iron chelator, or d bone marrow transplantation. This can lead to a lifelong impact on the sick children and their families who may have a high risk of psychosocial issues. This paper was related to caring for a neonatal with α-thalassemia who needed to be treated in an intensive care unit. The grandmother deeply experienced grief due to the loss of her healthy grandchild. Interaction and interview with the grandmother were recorded as process recording. Data analysis used content analysis. Findings included (1) experiencing life from enjoyment to tribulations; (2) repeatedly self-blame and difficulty accepting the inherited disease; (3) losing daily routines and plans; and (4) overcoming a high degree of uncertainty to face the future. For patients and their families, nurses should be with them and conduct active listening and recognizing their grief due to their losses. Also helping them to discover the meaning of the losses can enhance the transition process from grief to healing.