The importance of parental support when caring for the acutely ill child

Abstract

Level 2 or above paediatric care may need to be instigated in an adult, critical care environment prior to retrieval to a specialist centre. To facilitate safe, effective and appropriate care of the child, it is essential that staff are aware of the precise needs of paediatric patients and the importance of parental involvement. The importance of parental support for the critically ill child is examined. Staff perceptions of parental need in comparison to actual need are explored to facilitate support for parents that will then aid paediatric recovery. Recommendations on how such information can be disseminated to staff are discussed.

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“…Parents are an integral part of the healthcare team and are knowledgeable about their own families (Major, 2003). They are the experts of their child and should be recognized for what they contribute (Coffey, 2006;Wheeler, 2005). Acknowledging their expertise increases their value and self-worth, thereby decreasing frustration they may have developed toward clinicians (Shudy et al, 2006).…”

“…We need to be compassionate in considering the parents' needs. Parental anxieties tend to get conveyed to the children (Wheeler, 2005). Keeping anxieties to a minimum may keep the family structure maintained.…”