Needs Assessment of Children with Cerebral Palsy Undergoing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Abstract

Background:The study aimed to assess needs of children with cerebral palsy undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Research Design: A descriptive design was used to conduct this study. Settings: This study will be conducted at Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Unit at Nasser Institute for Research and Treatment. Subject: A convenient sample composed of 110 children fulfilling the inclusion criteria of the study and their accompanying parents. Tools: data collection involved an interviewing questionnaire adapted from (Narayanan et al, 2006). Results: this study showed that the needs of children were physical, psychological, social. Also the majority of studied children total dependent on their parents to fulfilling their needs. Conclusion: the needs of children include: crutches to help moving in hyperbaric chamber, ways to facilitate communication, instructed about middle ear equalization, reassurance, family support during period of treatment. Recommendation: Further researches should be conducted to develop strategy to overcome unfulfilled health needs of children with cerebral palsy undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy.