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Suonpera E, Gallagher K, Marlow N, Lanceley A. 'I don't want him to always be so far behind': Parental perceptions of child independence in the context of extreme prematurity; a qualitative study. J Child Health Care 2024:13674935241256545. [PMID: 38798176 DOI: 10.1177/13674935241256545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
This study addresses the paucity of research on parents of extremely preterm adolescents (born <27 weeks of gestation) and their experiences within the framework of parental determinism. We conducted semi-structured interviews with twenty-two mothers and one father. Data were analysed thematically, revealing three overarching themes and eight subthemes shaping parental accounts. These themes centred on parental ambitions for their children, their perceptions of their child's abilities, and the parenting behaviours employed to support parental aspirations. Parents' actions were influenced by their ambitions and the belief that they could impact their child's future independence. While some parents adopted 'trusting', non-intensive parenting behaviours, those anticipating challenges for their child's future independence resorted to intensive parenting practices. These findings align with the concept of parental determinism, emphasising the perceived causal link between present parental actions and future child outcomes. In the context of extreme prematurity, a nuanced understanding of parental perceptions regarding their child's future independence aligned with a delicate balance between hope and realistic aspiration is crucial for enhancing parental support and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmi Suonpera
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Katie Gallagher
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Neil Marlow
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anne Lanceley
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
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Chu S, Sisk BA, Kolmar A, Malone JR. Open Notes Experiences of Parents in the Pediatric ICU. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023064919. [PMID: 38584584 PMCID: PMC11035162 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-064919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined how parents experience and navigate open access to clinical notes ("open notes") in their child's electronic health record and explored their interactions with clinicians during an ICU admission. METHODS We performed a qualitative analysis using semistructured interviews of English-speaking parents who accessed their child's clinical notes during a pediatric ICU (general or cardiac) admission. We included patient-parent dyads with an ICU admission ≥48 hours between April 2021 and December 2022, note access by proxy timestamp during the ICU course, and either patient age <12 years or incapacitated adolescent ages 12 to 21 years. Purposive sampling was based on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Phone interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using inductive thematic codebook analysis. RESULTS We interviewed 20 parents and identified 2 thematic categories, outcomes and interactions, in parents accessing clinical notes. Themes of outcomes included applied benefits, psychosocial and emotional value, and negative consequences. Themes of interactions included practical limitations and parental approach and appraisal. The ICU context and power dynamics were a meta-theme, influencing multiple themes. All parents reported positive qualities of note access despite negative consequences related to content, language, burdens, and lack of support. Parents suggested practice and design improvements surrounding open note access. CONCLUSIONS Parental experiences with open notes reveal new, unaddressed considerations for documentation access, practices, and purpose. Parents leverage open notes by negotiating between the power dynamics in the ICU and the uncertain boundaries of their role and authority in the electronic health record.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selby Chu
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Bryan A. Sisk
- Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- St Louis Children’s Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Amanda Kolmar
- Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- St Louis Children’s Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Jay R. Malone
- Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- St Louis Children’s Hospital, St Louis, Missouri
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Kittelsen TB, Lorentsen VB, Castor C, Lee A, Kvarme LG, Winger A. It's about living a normal life: parents' quality of life when their child has a life-threatening or life-limiting condition - a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:92. [PMID: 38589835 PMCID: PMC11003040 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01417-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric palliative care (PPC) seeks to enhance the quality of life (QoL) for both children and their families. While most studies within PPC have focused on the ill child's QoL, less is known about parents' experiences of their own QoL. The aim of this study was to explore parents' QoL when their child has a life-threatening or life-limiting condition. METHODS The study has a qualitative, hermeneutic phenomenological design inspired by van Manen's phenomenology of practice. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 fathers and 12 mothers of children living with cancer or a genetic condition. A deeper understanding of parents' lived experiences was obtained through an adapted photo elicitation method. Two rounds of thematic analysis were conducted, covering both the photo elicitation data, and interview data. RESULTS The findings describe four themes related to parents' QoL: living a normal life, giving my child a good life, having time to fulfill siblings' needs, and feeling heard and respected in the health and social care system. CONCLUSIONS The complexity of elements shaping parents' QoL is evident. The interconnectedness between parents, the ill child, siblings, and interactions with the health and social care system, highlights the need to understand and address diverse aspects in enhancing parents QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Brun Kittelsen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Pilestredet 32, Oslo, 0167, Norway.
| | - Vibeke Bruun Lorentsen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute for Nursing, VID Specialized University, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Anja Lee
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital HF, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lisbeth Gravdal Kvarme
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Pilestredet 32, Oslo, 0167, Norway
| | - Anette Winger
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Pilestredet 32, Oslo, 0167, Norway
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Dobson A, Hornsey S, Ghio D, Latter S, Santer M, Muller I. 'Either something's wrong, or I'm a terrible parent': A systematic review of parent experiences of illness-related interpretations for unsettled babies. J Adv Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38528428 DOI: 10.1111/jan.16166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
AIMS To explore parents' experiences of unsettled babies and medical labels. DESIGN Qualitative systematic review, thematic synthesis and development of a conceptual model. REVIEW METHODS Systematic review and thematic synthesis of primary, qualitative research into parents' experiences of unsettled babies <12 months of age. 'Unsettled' was defined as perception of excessive crying with additional feature(s) such as vomiting, skin or stool problems. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist was used to assess trustworthiness. DATA SOURCES Structured searches completed in CINAHL, Medline, Embase, PsychINFO and CochraneCT on 23 March 2022 and rerun on 14 April 2023. RESULTS Ten eligible studies were included across eight countries contributing data from 103 mothers and 24 fathers. Two analytical themes and eight descriptive themes were developed. Firstly, parents expressed fearing judgement, feeling guilty and out of control as a result of babies' unsettled symptoms and seeking strategies to construct an 'Identity as a "Good Parent"'. This desire for positive parenting identity underpinned the second analytical theme 'Searching for an explanation' which included seeking external (medical) causes for babies' unsettled behaviours. CONCLUSION Parents can become trapped in a cycle of 'searching for an explanation' for their baby's unsettled behaviours, experiencing considerable distress which is exacerbated by feelings of guilt and failure. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PATIENT CARE Insight gained from this review could inform interventions to support parents, reducing inaccurate medicalization. Health visiting teams supporting parents with unsettled baby behaviour could focus on supporting a positive parenting identity by managing expectations, normalizing the continuum of infant behaviours, reducing feelings of guilt or uncertainty and helping parents regain a feeling of control. REPORTING METHOD ENTREQ guidelines were adhered to in the reporting of this review. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Parent input was crucial in the design phase; shaping the language used (e.g., 'unsettled babies') and in the analysis sense-checking findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Dobson
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Samantha Hornsey
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Susan Latter
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Miriam Santer
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Ingrid Muller
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Ritchie Z, Teachman G, Shaul RZ, Smith MJ. "She was finally mine": the moral experience of families in the context of trisomy 13 and 18- a scoping review with thematic analysis. BMC Med Ethics 2024; 25:24. [PMID: 38431625 PMCID: PMC10908114 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00994-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The value of a short life characterized by disability has been hotly debated in the literature on fetal and neonatal outcomes. METHODS We conducted a scoping review to summarize the available empirical literature on the experiences of families in the context of trisomy 13 and 18 (T13/18) with subsequent thematic analysis of the 17 included articles. FINDINGS Themes constructed include (1) Pride as Resistance, (2) Negotiating Normalcy and (3) The Significance of Time. INTERPRETATION Our thematic analysis was guided by the moral experience framework conceived by Hunt and Carnevale (2011) in association with the VOICE (Views On Interdisciplinary Childhood Ethics) collaborative research group. RELEVANCE This article will be of interest and value to healthcare professionals and bioethicists who support families navigating the medically and ethically complex landscape of T13/18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Ritchie
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Rotman Institute of Philosophy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Gail Teachman
- School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Randi Zlotnik Shaul
- Department of Paediatrics and Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Bioethics , The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maxwell J Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Rotman Institute of Philosophy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Hornberger SR, Zhang Y, Zhang N, Giambra BK. Association between parental education level & outcomes for children with long-term ventilator dependence: Communication behaviors as moderating variables. J Pediatr Nurs 2024; 75:205-212. [PMID: 38194763 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2023.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between parental education level and outcomes for children with long-term ventilator dependence (LTVD) and their families and whether parent communication behaviors with hospital nurses moderated the relationship. Advances in medical technology and policy changes allow children with LTVD to be cared for at home. The child's diagnosis and disease severity affect their health outcomes, as do their family's social determinants of health (SDoH) such as parent education. DESIGN AND METHODS This secondary data analysis used chi-square tests to evaluate the correlation between parental education level and outcomes. Generalized linear mixed effect models were used to examine the moderation effect of parent communication behaviors. RESULTS Lower parental education level was associated with more child respiratory infections and more parental uncertainty within one month following hospital discharge. Lower parent education level was also associated with fewer unplanned contacts with providers within one week post-discharge. Additionally, parent use of Verifying Understanding communication behaviors moderated the relationship between parental education level and number of respiratory infections and amount of parental uncertainty. Finally, parent use of Negotiating Roles moderated the association between education level and number of unplanned visits. CONCLUSIONS Contradicting previous research, lower parental education level does not consistently correspond to adverse outcomes and may be explained by parents' determination to ensure optimal outcomes for their children with LTVD. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Overall, healthcare providers should not be concerned that children with LTVD will have different outcomes based on their parents' education level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney R Hornberger
- Indiana University School of Medicine: West Lafayette Campus, 715 Clinic Dr, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States; Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center: Division of Research in Patient Services, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States.
| | - Yin Zhang
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center: Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States
| | - Nanhua Zhang
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center: Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine: Department of Pediatrics, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States
| | - Barbara K Giambra
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center: Division of Research in Patient Services, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States; Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center: Department of Pediatrics, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States; University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, 3110 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45221, United States
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Geurtzen R, Wilkinson DJC. Incorporating parental values in complex paediatric and perinatal decisions. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2024; 8:225-235. [PMID: 38219752 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(23)00267-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Incorporating parental values in complex medical decisions for young children is important but challenging. In this Review, we explore what it means to incorporate parental values in complex paediatric and perinatal decisions. We provide a narrative overview of the paediatric, ethics, and medical decision-making literature, focusing on value-based and ethically complex decisions for children who are too young to express their own preferences. We explain key concepts and definitions, discuss paediatric-specific features, reflect on challenges in learning and expressing values for both parents and health-care providers, and provide recommendations for clinical practice. Decisional values are informed by global and external values and could relate to the child, the parents, and the whole family. These values should inform preferences and assure value-congruent choices. Additionally, parents might hold various meta values on the process of decision making itself. Complex decisions for young children are emotionally taxing, ethically difficult, and often surrounded by uncertainty. These contextual factors make it more likely that values and preferences are initially absent or unstable and need to be constructed or stabilised. Health-care professionals and parents should work together to construct and clarify values and incorporate them into personalised decisions for the child. An open communication style, with unbiased and tailored information in a supportive environment, is helpful. Dedicated training in communication and shared decision making could help to improve the incorporation of parental values in complex decisions for young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Geurtzen
- Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud Institute of Healthcare Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.
| | - Dominic J C Wilkinson
- Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Newborn Care Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Centre for Biomedical Ethics, National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore
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Zhang Z, Huang H, Duan M, Yu L, Cheng L. "Being a Good Parent" During Times of Illness as Defined by Chinese Children With Cancer, Their Parents, and Providers. Cancer Nurs 2024:00002820-990000000-00212. [PMID: 38335462 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying the definition of "being a good parent" facilitates the understanding of parents' personal beliefs and deeds regarding their ill child. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the concept of "being a good parent to my ill child" during pediatric cancer treatment from the perspective of Chinese children, parents, and providers. METHODS A descriptive qualitative study was conducted with 6 children, 18 parents, 5 doctors, 19 nurses, and 3 social workers by semistructured interviews at 3 Chinese hospitals. RESULTS Except for "letting the Lord lead," 7 themes from the original conceptual model were validated, for example, "being there for my child" (n = 51, 100.0%); "doing right by my child" (n = 38, 74.5%), "being an advocate for my child" (n = 27, 52.9%), "conveying love to my child" (n = 26, 51.0%), "making my child healthy" (n = 18, 35.3%), "being a good life example" (n = 13, 25.5%), and "not allowing suffering" (n = 13, 25.5%). A new theme, "rebuilding myself" (n = 39, 76.5%), emerged in the Chinese context. "Being a good parent to my ill child" is perceived differently among stakeholders. Healthcare professionals' facilitation to fulfill the concept included "recognizing the individualized good-parent definition," "providing best available care" and "establishing a supportive environment." CONCLUSION "Being a good parent to my ill child" is meaningfully expressed by Chinese parents and recognized by children and providers during pediatric cancer treatment. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE It is important to support parents in conveying their internal good parent definition and sharing it with stakeholders. Attention should be paid to related cultural influencers, a supportive family-friendly environment, and shared decision making involving the child's voice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihe Zhang
- Author Affiliations: School of Nursing, Fudan University (Ms Zhang and Dr Cheng), Shanghai; Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center (Ms Huang), Guangdong; Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital (Ms Duan); and Hematology & Oncology Department, Children's Hospital of Fudan University (Ms Yu), Shanghai, China
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Poole EI, Ryan M, Walls M, Slumkoski C, Curran JA, Seabrook JA, Foster JR. "I want to be there. I have to be there.": Parents' perceived barriers and facilitators to bedside presence in the pediatric intensive care unit. Front Pediatr 2024; 11:1308682. [PMID: 38259595 PMCID: PMC10800939 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1308682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Parental presence at the bedside during a stressful pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission may improve child comfort, reduce parental anxiety, and enable family engagement. We performed this study to identify factors that parents perceive impact their capability, opportunity, and motivation to be at the bedside in PICU. Methods We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). We included parents of children admitted to the PICU for at least 24 h at IWK Health in Nova Scotia, Canada. Interviews were coded independently by two researchers using a directed content approach based on the TDF. We generated themes and subthemes, with the subthemes identified as factors impacting parental presence, and assigned TDF domains to each of the subthemes. Results Fourteen primary caregivers (8 mother figures, 6 father figures) participated in 11 interviews. The factors associated with parental presence were captured by 6 themes: Understanding the Medicalized Child; Maintaining the Parent Role; Life Beyond the Hospital; Parental Intrinsic Responses and Coping; Support Structures; and The PICU Environment. Fifty-two barriers and enablers were identified within 13 TDF domains; 10 TDF domains were determined to be relevant to parental presence, which may be used to guide design of future interventions. Participants emphasized the importance of self-care to enable them to remain physically at their child's bedside and to be engaged in their care. Conclusions Parents perceive multiple factors within 6 themes act as barriers or enablers to presence with their critically ill child in the PICU. Guided by relevant TDF domains, interventions may be designed to optimize presence, particularly engaged presence, which may improve health-related outcomes of children and their parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily I. Poole
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Molly Ryan
- Department of Critical Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Martha Walls
- Pediatric Critical Care Patient Partnerships, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Corey Slumkoski
- Pediatric Critical Care Patient Partnerships, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Janet A. Curran
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jamie A. Seabrook
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer R. Foster
- Department of Critical Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Polakova K, Ahmed F, Vlckova K, Brearley SG. Parents' experiences of being involved in medical decision-making for their child with a life-limiting condition: A systematic review with narrative synthesis. Palliat Med 2024; 38:7-24. [PMID: 38053373 PMCID: PMC10798032 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231214414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parental involvement in the decision-making processes about medical treatment for children with life-limiting conditions is recognised as good practice. Previous research highlighted factors affecting the decision-making process, but little is known about how parents experience their participation. AIM To explore how parents experience their participation in the process of decision-making about treatment and future care for their children with life-limiting conditions. DESIGN A systematically constructed review using narrative synthesis. The PRISMA guidelines were followed to report the findings. Databases Medline, EMBASE, SCOPUS, CINAHL and PsycINFO were searched up to December 2023. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (RN CRD42021215863). RESULTS From the initial 2512 citations identified, 28 papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. A wide range of medical decisions was identified; stopping general or life-sustaining treatment was most frequent. Narrative synthesis revealed six themes: (1) Temporal aspects affecting the experience with decision-making; (2) Losing control of the situation; (3) Transferring the power to decide to doctors; (4) To be a 'good' parent and protect the child; (5) The emotional state of parents and (6) Sources of support to alleviate the parental experience. CONCLUSIONS Parental experiences with decision-making are complex and multifactorial. Parents' ability to effectively participate in the process is limited, as they are not empowered to do so and the circumstances in which the decisions are taking place are challenging. Healthcare professionals need to support parental involvement in an effective way instead of just formally asking them to participate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristyna Polakova
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
- Center for Palliative Care, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Faraz Ahmed
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | | | - Sarah G Brearley
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Lee LA, Foster JR, Nikitovic D, Garros D, Ryan MJ, Moghadam N, Slumkoski C, Walls M, Curran JA, Seabrook JA, Burgess S, Betts L, Barclay A, Choong K, Fontela P, Murthy S, Nicoll J, O'Hearn K, Sehgal A, Tijssen J. "We Aren't Meant to Go Through the Hardest Parts of Our Lives Alone": Family Experience With Restricted PICU Presence During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Crit Care Explor 2023; 5:e0989. [PMID: 38304703 PMCID: PMC10833634 DOI: 10.1097/cce.0000000000000989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT PICUs across Canada restricted family presence (RFP) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic from allowing two or more family members to often only one family member at the bedside. The objective of this study was to describe the experiences and impact of RFP on families of critically ill children to inform future policy and practice. HYPOTHESIS RFP policies negatively impacted families of PICU patients and caused moral distress. METHODS AND MODELS National, cross-sectional, online, self-administered survey. Family members of children admitted to a Canadian PICU between March 2020 and February 2021 were invited to complete the survey. RFP-attributable distress was measured with a modified distress thermometer (0-10). Closed-ended questions were reported with descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression assessed factors associated with RFP-attributable distress. Open-ended questions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS Of 250 respondents who experienced RFP, 124 (49.6%) were restricted to one family member at the bedside. The median amount of distress that families attributed to RFP policies was 6 (range: 0-10). Families described isolation, removal of supports, and perception of trauma related to RFP. Most families (183, 73.2%) felt that policies were enforced in a way that made them feel valued by PICU clinicians, which was associated with less RFP-attributable distress. Differential impact was seen where families with lower household income indicated higher RFP-attributable distress score (2.35; 95% CI, 0.53-4.17; p = 0.03). Most respondents suggested that future policies should allow at least two family members at the bedside. INTERPRETATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS Families of children admitted to PICUs during the COVID-19 pandemic described increased distress, trauma, and removal of supports due to RFP policies. Vulnerable families showed an increased odds of higher distress. Healthcare professionals played an important role in mitigating distress. Allowance of at least two family members at the bedside should be considered for future policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie A Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer R Foster
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Critical Care, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Dejana Nikitovic
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Daniel Garros
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Molly J Ryan
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Neda Moghadam
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Corey Slumkoski
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Martha Walls
- Patient Partner, Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Janet A Curran
- IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Dalhousie School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, BC, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | | | - Laura Betts
- Department of Pediatric Critical Care, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Amanda Barclay
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Pediatrics, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Island Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Victoria General Hospital, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Karen Choong
- Departments of Pediatrics and Critical Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia Fontela
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Srinivas Murthy
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jessica Nicoll
- Janeway Children's Health and Rehabilitation Centre, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Katie O'Hearn
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Anupam Sehgal
- Department of Pediatrics, Queen's University, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Janice Tijssen
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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12
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Broden EG, Mazzola E, DeCourcey DD, Blume ED, Wolfe J, Snaman JM. The roles of preparation, location, and palliative care involvement in parent-perceived child suffering at the end of life. J Pediatr Nurs 2023; 72:e166-e173. [PMID: 37355461 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2023.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Parents' perceptions of their child's suffering affect their bereavement experience. Identifying factors that shape parental perceptions of suffering could help build effective supportive interventions for children and parents navigating EOL and grief. We aimed to compare parent-perceived child suffering between diagnostic groups and identify related factors. DESIGN AND METHODS We combined databases from 3 surveys of parents whose children who died following cancer, a complex chronic condition (CCC), or advanced heart disease. We built multivariable logistic regression models to identify relationships between parent-perceived child suffering and parent/child, illness experience, and care-related factors. RESULTS Among 277 parents, 41% rated their child's suffering as moderate or high. Fifty-seven percent of parents whose child died from cancer reported that their child suffered "a lot" or "a great deal" at EOL, compared to 33% whose child died from a CCC, and 17% whose child died from heart disease (P < 0.001). Preparation for EOL symptoms was associated with decreased parent-perceived child suffering in multivariable modeling, with parents who were prepared for EOL 68% less likely to rate their child's suffering as high compared to those who felt unprepared (AOR: 0.32, CI [0.13-0.77], P = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS Preparing families for their child's EOL may help mitigate lingering perceptions of suffering. Operationalizing preparation is crucial to optimizing family support during EOL care. IMPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE Preparation for symptoms, and access to resources, including medical/psychosocial interventions and staff, may help ease parental perception of EOL suffering. Clinicians should prioritize preparing families for what to expect during a child's dying process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Broden
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Emanuele Mazzola
- Department of Data Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Danielle D DeCourcey
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Medical Critical Care, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Blume
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joanne Wolfe
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer M Snaman
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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13
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Abayneh M, Rent S, Ubuane PO, Carter BS, Deribessa SJ, Kassa BB, Tekleab AM, Kukora SK. Perinatal palliative care in sub-Saharan Africa: recommendations for practice, future research, and guideline development. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1217209. [PMID: 37435165 PMCID: PMC10331424 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1217209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, sub-Saharan Africa has the highest burden of global neonatal mortality (43%) and neonatal mortality rate (NMR): 27 deaths per 1,000 live births. The WHO recognizes palliative care (PC) as an integral, yet underutilized, component of perinatal care for pregnancies at risk of stillbirth or early neonatal death, and for neonates with severe prematurity, birth trauma or congenital anomalies. Despite bearing a disproportionate burden of neonatal mortality, many strategies to care for dying newborns and support their families employed in high-income countries (HICs) are not available in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Many institutions and professional societies in LMICs lack guidelines or recommendations to standardize care, and existing guidelines may have limited adherence due to lack of space, equipment, supplies, trained professionals, and high patient load. In this narrative review, we compare perinatal/neonatal PC in HICs and LMICs in sub-Saharan Africa to identify key areas for future, research-informed, interventions that might be tailored to the local sociocultural contexts and propose actionable recommendations for these resource-deprived environments that may support clinical care and inform future professional guideline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahlet Abayneh
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sharla Rent
- Duke Department of Pediatrics, Duke School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Peter Odion Ubuane
- Department of Pediatrics, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Brian S. Carter
- Division of Neonatology and Bioethics Center, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, United States
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, Universityof Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
| | - Solomie Jebessa Deribessa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Betelehem B. Kassa
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Atnafu Mekonnen Tekleab
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Stephanie K. Kukora
- Division of Neonatology and Bioethics Center, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, United States
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, Universityof Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
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14
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Peralta D, Bogetz J, Lemmon ME. Seminars in Fetal & neonatal medicine: Palliative and end of life care in the NICU. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 28:101457. [PMID: 37230860 PMCID: PMC10827319 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2023.101457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dana Peralta
- Duke North Pavilion, 2400 Pratt Street, 8th Floor, DUMC 102509, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Jori Bogetz
- 1900 Ninth Ave, JMB-6, Seattle, WA 98101, USA.
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15
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Joslin R, Donovan‐Hall M, Roberts L. "You just want someone to help": Outcomes that matter to parents when their child is treated for chronic pain. PAEDIATRIC & NEONATAL PAIN 2023; 5:38-48. [PMID: 37283953 PMCID: PMC10240402 DOI: 10.1002/pne2.12098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In children's chronic pain services, healthcare decisions involve a three-way interaction between the child, their parent or guardian, and the health professional. Parents have unique needs, and it is unknown how they visualize their child's recovery and which outcomes they perceive to be an indication of their child's progress. This qualitative study explored the outcomes parents considered important, when their child was undergoing treatment for chronic pain. A purposive sample of twenty-one parents of children receiving treatment for chronic musculoskeletal pain, completed a one-off semi-structured interview that involved drawing a timeline of their child's treatment. The interview and timeline content were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes are evident at different points of the child's treatment course. The "perfect storm" that described their child's pain starting, "fighting in the dark" was a stage when parents focused on finding a service or health professional that could solve their child's pain. The third stage, "drawing a line under it," changed the outcomes parents considered important, parents changed how they approached their child's pain and worked alongside professionals, focusing on their child's happiness and engagement with life. They watched their child make positive change and moved toward the final theme "free." The outcomes parents considered important changed over their child's treatment course. The shift described by parents during treatment appeared pivotal to the recovery of young people, demonstrating the importance of the role of parents within chronic pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon Joslin
- School of Health SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Women's and Children's DepartmentUniversity Hospitals Sussex, St. Richards HospitalChichesterUK
| | | | - Lisa Roberts
- School of Health SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Therapy Services DepartmentUniversity Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation TrustSouthamptonUK
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16
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Brittan MS, Chavez C, Blakely C, Holliman BD, Zuk J. Paid Family Caregiving for Children With Medical Complexity. Pediatrics 2023; 151:e2022060198. [PMID: 37248869 PMCID: PMC10233733 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-060198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated Colorado's paid family caregiver certified nursing assistant (CNA) program by assessing stakeholders' perceptions of the model's strengths and potential areas for improvement. METHODS A professional bilingual research assistant conducted key informant interviews of English- and Spanish-speaking certified nursing assistant (CNA) family caregivers (FCs), primary care providers, and pediatric home health administrators of children with medical complexity in the family caregiver CNA program. Interview questions focused on the program's benefits, drawbacks, and implications for the child and caregiver's quality of life. Transcripts were coded and analyzed, and themes summarizing program benefits and disadvantages were identified. RESULTS Semistructured interviews were completed by phone with 25 FCs, 10 home health administrators, and 10 primary care providers between September 2020 and June 2021. Overall, the program was highly valued and uniformly recommended for prospective families. Perceived benefits included: (1) fulfilling the desire to be a good parent, (2) providing stable and high-quality home health care, (3) benefitting the child's health and wellbeing, and (4) enhancing family financial stability. Perceived drawbacks included: (1) FCs experiencing mental and physical health burdens, (2) difficult access for some community members, (3) extraneous training requirements, and (4) low program visibility. CONCLUSIONS Given the perceived benefits of the family CNA program, the model may be considered for future dissemination to other communities. However, additional research and program improvements are needed to help make this a more equitable and sustainable home health care model for children with medical complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S. Brittan
- Section of Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS), University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Catia Chavez
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS), University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | - Brooke Dorsey Holliman
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS), University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jeannie Zuk
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS), University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
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17
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Katz NT, Alpert AB, Aristizabal MP, McDaniels-Davidson C, Sacks BH, Sanft T, Chou CL, Martinez ME. Partnering With Patients and Caregivers in Cancer Care: Lessons From Experiences With Transgender, Hispanic, and Pediatric Populations. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e397264. [PMID: 37200592 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_397264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A cancer diagnosis thrusts patients and caregivers into a foreign world of health care with systems, protocols, and norms that can leave little room for individual needs and circumstances. Quality and efficacious oncology care requires clinicians to partner with patients and caregivers to understand and incorporate their needs, values, and priorities into information sharing, decision making, and care provision. This partnership is necessary for effective patient- and family-centered care and access to individualized and equitable information, treatment, and research participation. Partnering with patients and families also requires oncology clinicians to see that our personal values, preconceived ideas, and established systems exclude certain populations and potentially lead to poorer care for all patients. Furthermore, inequitable access to participation in research and clinical trials can contribute to an unequal burden of cancer morbidity and mortality. Leveraging the expertise of the authorship team with transgender, Hispanic, and pediatric populations, this chapter provides insights and suggestions for oncology care that are applicable across patient populations to mitigate stigma and discrimination and improve the quality of care for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi T Katz
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Palliative Care Service, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Insitute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ash B Alpert
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - M Paula Aristizabal
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, University of California and Peckman Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, CA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA
| | - Corinne McDaniels-Davidson
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
| | - Bronwyn H Sacks
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Insitute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tara Sanft
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Calvin L Chou
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Veterans Affairs Helathcare System, San Francisco, CA
| | - Maria Elena Martinez
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, CA
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18
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Koivumäki T, Jallinoja P. The good, the bad, and the blameless in parenting: a thematic analysis of discussions of childhood obesity on an internet forum. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:452. [PMID: 36890492 PMCID: PMC9993749 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15314-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood obesity is affecting an increasing percentage of families globally. For families, obesity is often a tense issue, not least because of the negative stigma and cultural perceptions associated with it. Discussions around childhood obesity do not take place only at home or in healthcare, but increasingly on social media, such as Internet discussion forums. Our aim was to analyse how childhood obesity is discussed on a Finnish online discussion forum by parents of children with obesity and other commenters. METHOD We gathered and analysed 16 discussion threads on childhood obesity taken from a Finnish Internet discussion forum, vauva.fi, between 2015 and 2021 (a total of 331 posts). For the analysis, we chose threads where the parents of a child with obesity took part. The parents' and other commenters' discussions were analysed and interpreted with inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS In the online discussions, childhood obesity was discussed mostly in the context of parenting, parental responsibility and lifestyle choices within the family. We identified three themes that were used to define parenting. In the theme of proving good parenting, parents and commenters listed healthy elements in their family's lifestyle to show their responsibility and parenting skills. In the theme of blaming bad parents, other commenters pointed out mistakes in the parents' behaviour or offered them advice. Moreover, many acknowledged that some factors causing childhood obesity were outside the parents' influence, forming the theme of lifting the blame from parents. In addition, many parents brought up that they were genuinely ignorant of the reasons for their child's overweight. CONCLUSIONS These results are in line with previous studies suggesting that in Western cultures obesity - including childhood obesity - is typically seen as the individual's fault and is associated with negative stigma. Consequently, counselling parents in healthcare should be expanded from supporting a healthy lifestyle to strengthening parents' identity as being good enough parents who are already making many health enhancing efforts. Situating the family in a wider context of the obesogenic environment could ease the parents' feelings that they have failed at parenting.
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19
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Dewan T, Birnie K, Drury J, Jordan I, Miller M, Neville A, Noel M, Randhawa A, Zadunayski A, Zwicker J. Experiences of medical traumatic stress in parents of children with medical complexity. Child Care Health Dev 2023; 49:292-303. [PMID: 35947493 PMCID: PMC10087969 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Parents of children with medical complexity (CMC) experience high levels of stress and adverse mental health outcomes. Pediatric medical traumatic stress (PMTS) could be an important contributor that has not yet been explored. PMTS describes parents' reactions to their child's illness and medical treatment and can lead to post-traumatic stress symptoms. This is the first study to describe the experiences and impact of PMTS among parents of CMC. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 22 parents of CMC. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to generate themes that described the experiences of PMTS and potential contributing factors in the healthcare setting. Themes were validated by study participants. RESULTS Parents experienced a spectrum of events and circumstances that impacted PMTS. These corresponded to three major themes: (a) the distinctive context of being the parent of a CMC, (b) interactions with healthcare providers that can hurt or heal and (c) system factors that set the stage for trauma. The consequences of repeated PMTS were a common point of emphasis among all the themes. Parents identified numerous changes that could mitigate PMTS such as acknowledgement of trauma and provision of proactive mental health support. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the issue of PMTS among parents of CMC and presents opportunities to mitigate their traumatic experiences. Supporting the integration of trauma-informed care practices, increasing awareness of PMTS and advocating for parental mental health services could better support parents and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammie Dewan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, Canada
| | - Katie Birnie
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | | | | | - Megan Miller
- Rotary Flames Children's Hospice and Palliative Care Service, Calgary, Canada
| | | | - Melanie Noel
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Alam Randhawa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Anna Zadunayski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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20
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Treat L, Dingman A. What Do Parents of Seriously Ill Infants With Neurologic Conditions Want From Their Medical Team? Starting Out With Care. Neurology 2023; 100:361-362. [PMID: 36456198 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000201668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Treat
- From the Section of Neurology (L.T., A.D.), and Section of Palliative Medicine (L.T., A.D.), Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Andra Dingman
- From the Section of Neurology (L.T., A.D.), and Section of Palliative Medicine (L.T., A.D.), Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.
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21
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Harting MT, Munson D, Linebarger J, Hirshberg E, Gow KW, Malek MM, Robbins AJ, Turnbull J. Ethical Considerations in Critically Ill Neonatal and Pediatric Patients. J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:1059-1073. [PMID: 36948932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
The care of critically ill neonates and pediatric patients can be particularly emotionally and ethically challenging. Emerging evidence suggests that we can improve the patient, family, and care team experience in the critical care setting through a better understanding and application of ethical frameworks and communication strategies. We conducted a multidisciplinary panel session at the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition in the fall of 2022 wherein we explored a myriad of ethical and communication considerations in this unique patient population, with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) as the congenital anomaly/disease framework. In this review, we will cover state of the art topics in ethics, communication, and palliative care including basic terminology, communication strategies such as trauma-informed communication, establishing/evolving goals of care, futility, medically inappropriate treatment, ethical frameworks, parental discretion, establishing milestones, internal/external intentions, and re-direction of care. These topics will be helpful to many specialties who are involved in the care of critically ill neonates and children including maternal fetal medicine, pediatrics, neonatology, pediatric critical care, palliative care, and pediatric surgery, along with the pediatric surgical subspecialties. We use a theoretical CDH case as an example and include the live audience responses from the interactive session. This primer provides overarching educational principles, as well as practical communication concepts, that can cultivate compassionate multidisciplinary teams, equipped to optimize family-centered, evidence-based compassionate communication and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Harting
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - David Munson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer Linebarger
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri - Kansas City and Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Ellie Hirshberg
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine and Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kenneth W Gow
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Marcus M Malek
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alexandria J Robbins
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Division of Palliative Care, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jessica Turnbull
- Department of Pediatrics and the Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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22
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Barrett L, Fraser L, Noyes J, Taylor J, Hackett J. Understanding parent experiences of end-of-life care for children: A systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis. Palliat Med 2023; 37:178-202. [PMID: 36546591 PMCID: PMC9896294 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221144084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 21 million children worldwide would benefit from palliative care input and over 7 million die each year. For parents of these children this is an intensely emotional and painful time through which they will need support. There is a lack of synthesised research about how parents experience the care delivered to their child at the end of life. AIM To systematically identify and synthesise qualitative research on parents' experiences of end-of-life care of their child. DESIGN A qualitative evidence synthesis was conducted. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021242946). DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were searched for qualitative studies published post-2000 to April 2020. Studies were appraised for methodological quality and data richness. Confidence in findings was assessed by GRADE-CERQual. RESULTS About 95 studies met the eligibility criteria. A purposive sample of 25 studies was taken, of good-quality papers with rich data describing the experience of over 470 parents. There were two overarching themes: parents of children receiving end-of-life care experienced a profound need to fulfil the parental role; and care of the parent. Subthemes included establishing their role, maintaining identity, ultimate responsibility, reconstructing the parental role, and continuing parenting after death. CONCLUSIONS Services delivering end-of-life care for children need to recognise the importance for parents of being able to fulfil their parental role and consider how they enable this. What the parental role consists of, and how it's expressed, differs for individuals. Guidance should acknowledge the need to enable parents to parent at their child's end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Barrett
- Martin House Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Lorna Fraser
- Martin House Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jane Noyes
- School of Social Science, Bangor University, Wales, UK
| | - Jo Taylor
- Martin House Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Julia Hackett
- Martin House Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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23
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Shipman KJ, Mercer AH, Raisanen JC, Jabre NA, Vo HH, Miles A, Shepard J, Henderson CM, Boss RD, Wilfond BS. "What Would Give Her the Best Life?": Understanding Why Families Decline Pediatric Home Ventilation. J Palliat Med 2023. [PMID: 36662553 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Families who must decide about pediatric home ventilation rely on the clinicians who counsel them for guidance. Most studies about pediatric home ventilation decisions focus on families who opt for this intervention, leaving much unknown about the families who decline. Objective: To describe the rationales of families who decline home ventilation. Design: Semi-structured interview study. Setting/Subjects: We interviewed 16 families in hospitals across 3 U.S. states, identified by their clinicians as previously deciding to not pursue home ventilation via tracheostomy within the past five years. Measurements: Targeted content and narrative analyses were used to understand family intentions and reasons for declining. Results: The clinical and social context varied among the 16 families in this study. Families' intentions in saying "no" fell into two categories: (1) definitive "No": Families who stood firm on in their decision and (2) contingent "No": Families who may consider this in the future. Families described four reasons why their child did not receive home ventilation: (1) concern about medical impacts, (2) concern about physical and/or communication restrictions, (3) concern that there would be no clear health benefit, and (4) concern about no clear meaningful life. Most families mentioned all four reasons, but concern about no clear meaningful life predominated. Conclusions: Though these families did not see home ventilation as an appropriate option, each reported a complex interplay of intentions behind and reasons for declining. Clinicians who counsel families about home ventilation could share the reasons that families commonly decline this intervention to facilitate a balanced discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J Shipman
- Palliative Care and Resilience Lab, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Amanda H Mercer
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Nicholas A Jabre
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Eudowood Division of Pediatric Respiratory Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Holly Hoa Vo
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alison Miles
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer Shepard
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carrie M Henderson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA.,Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - Renee D Boss
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin S Wilfond
- Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Aultman JM, Raimer PL, Grossoehme DH, Nofziger RA, Ba A, Friebert S. Supporting and Contextualizing Pediatric ECMO Decision-Making Using a Person-Centered Framework. THE JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ETHICS 2023; 34:245-257. [PMID: 37831652 DOI: 10.1086/726811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThere is a critical need to establish a space to engage in careful deliberation amid exciting, important, necessary, and groundbreaking technological and clinical advances in pediatric medicine. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is one such technology that began in pediatric settings nearly 50 years ago. And while not void of medical and ethical examination, both the symbolic progression of medicine that ECMO embodies and its multidimensional challenges to patient care require more than an intellectual exercise. What we illustrate, then, is a person-centered framework that incorporates the philosophy and practice of palliative care and care-based ethical approaches. This person-centered framework is valuable for identifying and understanding challenges central to ECMO, guides collaborative decision-making, and recognizes the value of relationships within and between patients, families, healthcare teams, and others who impact and are impacted by ECMO. Specifically, this person-centered approach enables caregivers to provide compassionate and effective support in critical, and often urgent, situations where conflicts may emerge among healthcare team members, families, and other decision makers. By reflecting on three cases based on actual situations, we apply our person-centered framework and identify those aspects that were utilized in and informed this project. We aim to fill a current gap in the pediatric ECMO literature by presenting a person-centered framework that promotes caregiving relationships among hospitalized critically ill children, families, and the healthcare team and is supported through the philosophy and practice of palliative care and clinical ethics.
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HarnEnz Z, Vermilion P, Foster-Barber A, Treat L. Pediatric neuropalliative care. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 191:157-184. [PMID: 36599507 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-824535-4.00015-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric palliative care seeks to support quality of life for children and families affected by serious illness. Children with neurological disease are among the most frequent recipients of pediatric palliative care. Several important elements distinguish pediatric palliative care from adult practice, including a longer illness duration, longitudinal relationships over the span of years, diseases characterized by chronic fragility rather than progressive pathology, and the reliance on parents as proxy decision makers. This chapter will provide an overview of pediatric neuropalliative care, with emphasis on the types of disease trajectories, symptom management, and communication principles for supporting shared decision making with families. The role of neurology expertise is highlighted throughout, with special attention toward incorporating palliative care into pediatric neurology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe HarnEnz
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Paul Vermilion
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Audrey Foster-Barber
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Lauren Treat
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States.
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Sullivan A, Arzuaga B, Luff D, Young V, Schnur M, Williams D, Cummings C. A Qualitative Study of Parental Perspectives on Prenatal Counseling at Extreme Prematurity. J Pediatr 2022; 251:17-23.e2. [PMID: 36096177 PMCID: PMC9729443 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine parental preferred language, terminology, and approach after prenatal counseling for an anticipated extremely preterm delivery. STUDY DESIGN Pregnant persons (and their partners) admitted at 220/7-256/7 weeks of estimated gestation participated in post antenatal-counseling semistructured interviews to explore preferred language and decision-making approaches of their antenatal counseling session. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed, and thematic analysis of the data was performed. RESULTS Thirty-nine interviews were conducted representing 28 total prenatal consults. Analysis identified 2 overarching themes impacting the whole counseling experience: the need for reassurance and compassionate communication, while parents traveled along a dynamic decision-making journey they described as fluid and ever-changing. Related themes included the following: (1) Finding Balance: parents reported the importance of balancing positivity and negativity as well as tailoring the amount of information, (2) The Unspoken: parents described assumptions and inferences surrounding language, resuscitation options, and values that can cloud the counseling process, (3) Making the Intangible Tangible: parents reported the importance of varied communication strategies, for example, visuals to better anticipate and prepare, and (4) Team Synergism: Parents expressed desire for communication and consistency among and between teams, which increased trust. CONCLUSIONS Parents facing extremely premature delivery generally did not report remembering specific terminology used during prenatal consultation but rather how the language and counseling approach made them feel and affected the decision-making process. These findings have implications for further research and educational intervention design to improve clinicians' counseling practices to better reflect parental preferences and ultimately improve counseling outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Sullivan
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
| | - Bonnie Arzuaga
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA
| | - Donna Luff
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Anesthesia and SimPeds, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Vanessa Young
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Maureen Schnur
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - David Williams
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Christy Cummings
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Lin M, Sayeed S, DeCourcey DD, Wolfe J, Cummings C. The Case for Advance Care Planning in the NICU. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189893. [PMID: 36321383 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-057824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Many NICUs have reached an inflection point where infant deaths following limitation of life-sustaining treatments outnumber those following unsuccessful resuscitations, and many infants who survive continue to require intensive supports. Families of such infants with serious illness may benefit from a standardized, process-oriented approach in decisional-support. Advance care planning (ACP), or communication that supports patients, or their surrogate decision-makers, in sharing values, goals, and preferences for future medical care, is recognized as a valuable strategy in supporting adults with serious and chronic illness. Although the role of ACP in older children and adolescents is evolving, its utility has not been systematically explored in the perinatal context. This article builds a case for formalizing a role for ACP in the NICU by defining ACP and appraising recent outcomes research, reviewing the current state of parental needs for decisional support and serious illness in the NICU, and describing how ACP may address current limitations in primary and specialty pediatric palliative care and challenges for decision-making in the newborn period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lin
- Pediatric Palliative Care Program, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | | | - Joanne Wolfe
- Departments of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care and Pediatrics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Krick JA, Feltman DM, Arnolds M. Decision-Making for Extremely Preterm Infants: A Qualitative Systematic Review. J Pediatr 2022; 251:6-16. [PMID: 35940293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesize and describe important elements of decision-making during antenatal consultation for threatened preterm delivery at the margin of gestational viability. STUDY DESIGN Data sources including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus were searched. We included all qualitative literature published on decision-making from 1990 to July 2021. Two authors independently screened and evaluated each study using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist; studies reaching moderate and high quality were included. We developed an extraction tool to collect and categorize data from each qualitative article, then used thematic analysis to analyze and describe the findings. RESULTS Twenty-five articles incorporating the views of 504 providers and 352 parents were included for final review. Thematic analysis revealed 4 main themes describing the experience of health care providers and parents participating in decision-making: factors that influence decision-making, information sharing, building a partnership, and making the decision. Parents and providers were not always in agreement upon which elements were most essential to the process of decision-making. Articles published in languages other than English were excluded. CONCLUSIONS Qualitative literature highlighting key factors which are important during antenatal counseling can inform and guide providers through the process of shared decision-making. Communicating clear, honest, and balanced information; avoiding artificially dichotomized options; and focusing on partnership building with families will help providers use the antenatal consultation to reach personalized decisions for each infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne A Krick
- Department of Pediatrics, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX.
| | - Dalia M Feltman
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Evanston Hospital, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL; Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Marin Arnolds
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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29
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Lin GX, Mikolajczak M, Keller H, Akgun E, Arikan G, Aunola K, Barham E, Besson E, Blanchard MA, Boujut E, Brianda ME, Brytek-Matera A, César F, Chen BB, Dorard G, dos Santos Elias LC, Dunsmuir S, Egorova N, Escobar MJ, Favez N, Fontaine AM, Foran H, Furutani K, Gannagé M, Gaspar M, Godbout L, Goldenberg A, Gross JJ, Gurza MA, Hatta O, Heeren A, Helmy M, Huynh MT, Kaneza E, Kawamoto T, Kellou N, Kpassagou BL, Lazarevic L, Le Vigouroux S, Lebert-Charron A, Leme V, MacCann C, Manrique-Millones D, Medjahdi O, Millones Rivalles RB, Miranda Orrego MI, Miscioscia M, Mousavi SF, Moutassem-Mimouni B, Murphy H, Ndayizigiye A, Ngnombouowo TJ, Olderbak S, Ornawka S, Cádiz DO, Pérez-Díaz PA, Petrides K, Prikhidko A, Salinas-Quiroz F, Santelices MP, Schrooyen C, Silva P, Simonelli A, Sorkkila M, Stănculescu E, Starchenkova E, Szczygieł D, Tapia J, Tremblay M, Tri TMT, Üstündağ-Budak AM, Valdés Pacheco M, van Bakel H, Verhofstadt L, Wendland J, Yotanyamaneewong S, Roskam I. Parenting Culture(s): Ideal-Parent Beliefs Across 37 Countries. JOURNAL OF CROSS-CULTURAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00220221221123043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
What is it to be “an ideal parent”? Does the answer differ across countries and social classes? To answer these questions in a way that minimizes bias and ethnocentrism, we used open-ended questions to explore ideal-parent beliefs among 8,357 mothers and 3,517 fathers from 37 countries. Leximancer Semantic Network Analysis was utilized to first determine parenting culture zones (i.e., countries with shared ideal-parent beliefs) and then extract the predominant themes and concepts in each culture zone. The results yielded specific types of ideal-parent beliefs in five parenting culture zones: being “responsible and children/family-focused” for Asian parents, being “responsible and proper demeanor-focused” for African parents, and being “loving and responsible” for Hispanic-Italian parents. Although the most important themes and concepts were the same in the final two zones—being “loving and patient,” there were subtle differences: English-speaking, European Union, and Russian parents emphasized “being caring,” while French-speaking parents valued “listening” or being “present.” Ideal-parent beliefs also differed by education levels within culture zones, but no general pattern was discerned across culture zones. These findings suggest that the country in which parents were born cannot fully explain their differences in ideal-parent beliefs and that differences arising from social class or education level cannot be dismissed. Future research should consider how these differences affect the validity of the measurements in question and how they can be incorporated into parenting intervention research within and across cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Heidi Keller
- Osnabrück University, Germany
- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mai Helmy
- Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
- Menoufia University, Egypt
| | | | - Emérence Kaneza
- Clinique de l’Education et de la Psychothérapie, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paola Silva
- Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | | | | | | | - Dorota Szczygieł
- SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Thi Minh Thuy Tri
- University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Moore B, McDougall R. Exploring the Ethics of the Parental Role in Parent-Clinician Conflict. Hastings Cent Rep 2022; 52:33-43. [PMID: 36537274 DOI: 10.1002/hast.1445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In pediatric health care, parents and clinicians sometimes have competing ideas of what should be done for a child. In this article, we explore the idea that notions of what should be done for a child partly depend on one's perception of one's role in the child's life and care. Although role-based appeals are common in health care, role-differentiated approaches to understanding parent-clinician conflicts are underexplored in the pediatric bioethics literature. We argue that, while the parental role is recognized as having social content or value, and sometimes legal force, it is not always recognized as having ethical content or value, as the clinician's role is. We draw together key insights from the normative and empirical literature on parental roles to show how a role-based lens might inform clinicians' and clinical ethicists' approach to cases in which parents and clinicians disagree.
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31
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Graetz DE, Rivas S, Wang H, Vedaraju Y, Ferrara G, Fuentes L, Cáceres-Serrano A, Antillon-Klussmann F, Devidas M, Metzger M, Rodriguez-Galindo C, Mack JW. Cancer treatment decision-making among parents of paediatric oncology patients in Guatemala: a mixed-methods study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057350. [PMID: 35953257 PMCID: PMC9379539 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine treatment decision-making priorities and experiences among parents of children with cancer in Guatemala. SETTING This study was conducted at Guatemala's National Pediatric Cancer Center in Guatemala City. PARTICIPANTS Spanish-speaking parents of paediatric patients (≤18 years of age) diagnosed with any form of cancer within the 8 weeks prior to study enrolment. The quantitative portion of this study included 100 parent participants; the qualitative component included 20 parents. Most participants were Catholic or Evangelical Spanish-speaking mothers. OUTCOMES Priorities and experiences of cancer treatment decision-making including decision-making role and experienced regret. RESULTS A range of paediatric ages and cancer diagnoses were included. Most Guatemalan parents surveyed (70%) made decisions about their child's cancer together and almost all (94%) without input from their community. Surveyed parents predominately preferred shared decision-making with their child's oncologist (76%), however 69% agreed it was best not to be provided with many options. Two-thirds of surveyed parents (65%) held their preferred role in decision-making, with fathers more likely to hold their preferred role than mothers (p=0.02). A small number of parents (11%) experienced heightened decisional regret, which did not correlate with socio-demographic characteristics or preferred decision-making role. Qualitative results supported quantitative findings, demonstrating a decision-making process that emphasised trust and honesty. CONCLUSIONS Guatemalan parents preferred to make decisions with their medical team and appreciated providers who were honest and inclusive, but directive about decisions. This study reinforces the importance of the provider-parent relationship and encourages clinicians in all settings to ask about and honour each parent's desired role in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan E Graetz
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Silvia Rivas
- Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Huiqi Wang
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Yuvanesh Vedaraju
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gia Ferrara
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lucia Fuentes
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Ana Cáceres-Serrano
- Department of Psychology, Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Federico Antillon-Klussmann
- Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica, Guatemala City, Guatemala
- Universidad Francisco Marroquin Facultad de Medicina, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Meenakshi Devidas
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Monika Metzger
- Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Jennifer W Mack
- Department of Population Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ethical considerations in the management of infants with severe intraventricular hemorrhage. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151599. [PMID: 35450739 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2022.151599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsic and extrinsic factors unique to neonatal care can complicate predictions of neurological outcomes for infants who suffer from severe intraventricular hemorrhage. While care decisions are driven by the same bioethical principles used in other domains, neurological prognostication can challenge concepts of futility, require careful examination of parental values, uncover biases and/or potentially compromise the best interests of the future child. In the following chapter we will review bioethical principles and relevant concepts, explore challenges to decision-making surrounding diagnoses of severe intraventricular hemorrhage and conclude with a brief review of practical approaches for counseling parents about neurodevelopmental impairment given the constraints of prognostic uncertainty and assumptions related to quality of life. We will argue that neurological findings alone, even in the setting of severe intraventricular hemorrhage, often do not constitute enough evidence for redirection of care but can be permissible when the entire neonatal condition is considered.
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Morrison W. Emotion as a Signpost in Complicated Pediatric Decision-Making. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2022; 22:17-19. [PMID: 35616966 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2022.2063452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wynne Morrison
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
- University of Pennsylvania
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34
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Personalized support of parents of extremely preterm infants before, during and after birth. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 27:101335. [PMID: 35780043 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2022.101335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The emotional turmoil associated with extremely preterm birth is inescapable parents. How each parent handles the unexpected, makes sense of the unknown and learns to parent their child is uniquely personal. A rigid standardized approach to support families through their journey before and during neonatal intensive care disregards this individuality. This article reviews general concepts and practices that can be learned and applied by clinicians to promote resiliency and help parents cope adaptively. This review will describe how to personalize parenting support during the antenatal consultation and hospitalization for parents of extremely premature infants. To facilitate this, mindsets and care delivery models need to shift from inflexible standardized protocols to flexible guidelines that enable personalized communications, support structures and care delivery models tailored to each person's characteristics, preferences, and values.
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Yazdani N, Chartrand J, Stacey D. Exploring Parental Decision Making for a Child With a Life-Limiting Condition: An Interpretive Description Study. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2022; 24:140-146. [PMID: 35026800 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore parents' and health care professionals' perception of parents' experiences in making decisions between acute and palliative therapies along the trajectory of their child's life-limiting condition. An interpretive description qualitative study was conducted. Semistructured interviews were completed with 6 parents and 6 health care professionals. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to identify, analyze, and report 4 themes: (1) "Going by your heart and gut": the process of making a unique decision; (2) "Not black and white": experiencing decisional conflict when making difficult decisions; (3) "Widening the circle of care": various sources of decision-making support; and (4) "Always a worry": concerns regarding parents' decision quality and outcomes. Parents described experiencing decisional conflict when making health care decisions for their child with a life-limiting condition. Decision support provided by health care professionals in an interprofessional manner was preferred and supplemented by a parent-based support network. Reassurance regarding their good parenting from health care professionals was described as supportive throughout the decision-making experience.
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Personalized communication with parents of children born at less than 25 weeks: Moving from doctor-driven to parent-personalized discussions. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151551. [PMID: 34893335 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2021.151551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Communication with parents is an essential component of neonatal care. For extremely preterm infants born at less than 25 weeks, this process is complicated by the substantial risk of mortality or major morbidity. For some babies with specific prognostic factors, the majority die. Although many of these deaths occur after admission to the intensive care unit, position statements have focused on communication during the prenatal consultation. This review takes a more comprehensive approach and covers personalized and parent-centered communication in the clinical setting during three distinct yet inter-related phases: the antenatal consultation, the neonatal intensive care hospitalization, and the dying process (when this happens). We advocate that a 'one-size-fits-all' communication model focused on standardizing information does not lead to partnerships. It is possible to standardize personalized approaches that recognize and adapt to parental heterogeneity. This can help clinicians and parents build effective partnerships of trust and affective support to engage in personalized decision-making. These practices begin with self-reflection on the part of the clinician and continue with practical frameworks and stepwise approaches supporting personalization and parent-centered communication.
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Choiceless options: when hospital-based services represent the only palliative care offering. Pediatr Res 2022; 91:1001-1003. [PMID: 34923578 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-021-01909-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Lack of availability of community-based pediatric palliative care and home-based hospice services for children limits care location options for families. For many families from rural regions, hospital-based care models may be perceived as the only viable choice due to geographic gaps in service coverage. Gaps exist not only in access to these key services but also in service quality without national pediatric service standards. While families from rural regions may express a goal to be home with their child for relational and communal care purposes the current setting of services may limit the feasibility of home-based care. Several potential pediatric systems changes (workforce, finance, policy) have the capacity to create and sustain a care model that allows a child with complex, chronic, or life-limiting diagnoses to experience a home other than the hospital. The existence of community-based pediatric palliative and pediatric home-based hospice services with a sustained workforce and high-quality national standard for children would bolster the ultimate congruence of a family's preference with actual care choices. IMPACT: Families of children with life-limiting diagnoses may express a preference to be home together. Disparities in access to community-based pediatric palliative care and hospice exist for children, particularly in rural regions. These gaps may translate into families experiencing hospital-based settings as the only feasible care model which may result in care escalations and medicalization. Expansion of the community-based workforce and development of pediatric-specific standards for key palliative services would increase home-based care options for families. This paper acknowledges the pediatric palliative and hospice availability crisis in rural regions and urges for improved access to high-quality, community-based services for children.
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Lemmon ME, Wusthoff CJ, Boss RD, Rasmussen LA. Ethical considerations in the care of encephalopathic neonates treated with therapeutic hypothermia. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 26:101258. [PMID: 34176763 PMCID: PMC8627487 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2021.101258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Engaging with ethical issues is central to the management of neonatal encephalopathy (NE). As treatment for these neonates evolves, new ethical issues will arise and many existing challenges will remain. We highlight three key ethical issues that arise in the care of neonates with NE treated with therapeutic hypothermia: facilitating shared decision making, understanding futility, and defining the boundaries between standard of care and research. Awareness of these issues will help clinicians counsel families in light of evolving treatments and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica E. Lemmon
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics and Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3936, Durham, NC, 27710, USA,Corresponding author. (M.E. Lemmon)
| | - Courtney J. Wusthoff
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, 750 Welch Road, Suite 317, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Renee D. Boss
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, 200 N. Wolfe St, Suite 2019, Baltimore, MD, 21287, United States
| | - Lisa Anne Rasmussen
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, Department of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, UVM Medical Center Palliative Care, 111 Colchester Avenue, Main Campus, Smith 262, Burlington, VT, 05401-1473, USA.
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Katz NT, Hynson JL, Gillam L. Dissonance in views between parents and clinicians of children with serious illness: How can we bridge the gap? J Paediatr Child Health 2021; 57:1370-1375. [PMID: 34132446 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Parents of children with serious illness must find a tolerable way of living each day, while caring for their child and making decisions about their treatments. Sometimes clinicians worry that parents do not understand the seriousness of their child's illness, including possible death. This can lead to tension, disagreement and even conflict. Such situations continue to occur despite expanding literature to help clinicians understand drivers of parental behaviour and decision-making. Some of this literature relates to the role of hope and how parents characterise being a 'good parent'. This article will summarise some of the applications and limitations of the hope and 'good parent' literature, as well as frameworks to understand grief and loss. We propose, however, that there is at least one missing link in understanding potential dissonance in views between parents and clinicians. We will make a case for the importance of a richer understanding about if, and how, parents 'visit' the 'reality' that clinicians wish to convey about their child's diagnosis and prognosis. We propose that clinician understanding about the benefits and burdens of 'visiting' this 'reality' for an individual family may help guide conversations and rapport, which in turn may influence decision-making with benefits for the child, family and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi T Katz
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Clinical Paediatrics Group, Murdoch Children's Research Group, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jenny L Hynson
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Clinical Paediatrics Group, Murdoch Children's Research Group, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Children's Bioethics Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lynn Gillam
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Clinical Paediatrics Group, Murdoch Children's Research Group, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Children's Bioethics Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Sisk BA, Keenan MA, Blazin LJ, Kaye E, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. "Don't be afraid to speak up": Communication advice from parents and clinicians of children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29052. [PMID: 33861026 PMCID: PMC8286806 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents and clinicians of children with cancer can provide advice to improve communication that reflects lessons learned through experience. We aimed to identify categories of communication advice offered to parents of children with cancer from clinicians and other parents. PROCEDURE (1) Semi-structured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer at three sites; (2) single-item, open-ended survey administered following 10 focus groups with 58 pediatric oncology clinicians at two sites. We asked participants for communication advice to parents, and analyzed responses using semantic content analysis. RESULTS Parents provided five categories of communication advice to other parents. Advocacy involved asking questions, communicating concerns, and speaking up for the child. Support involved pursuing self-care, seeking and accepting help, and identifying supportive communities. Managing information involved taking and organizing notes, remaining open to difficult truths, and avoiding inaccurate information. Partnership involved establishing open lines of communication with clinicians, making the family's values and priorities known, and trusting the clinical team. Engaging and supporting the child involved, understanding and incorporating the child's preferences and values, and creating a loving environment. Clinicians' advice addressed similar categories, although only one clinician described engaging and supporting the child. Furthermore, parental advice expanded beyond interactions with the clinical team, whereas clinician advice focused more on the role of clinicians. CONCLUSIONS Parents and clinicians of children with cancer provided five categories of communication advice. With these data, clinicians, health care organizations, support groups, and patient advocates could offer experience-informed advice to parents who are seeking information and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Megan A Keenan
- Bioethics Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erica Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Sisk BA, Schulz GL, Kaye EC, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Clinicians' Perspectives on the Functions of Communication in Pediatric Oncology. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1545-1549. [PMID: 34255562 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Parents previously identified eight core functions of communication with clinicians in pediatric oncology. Objective: To determine clinicians' views on communication functions in pediatric oncology. Design: In 10 focus groups with 59 clinicians at two academic centers, we asked open-ended questions about communication goals and purposes. Then we presented definitions of eight communication functions previously described by parents and explored clinicians' perspectives. Setting/Subjects: We performed separate focus groups for nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and psychosocial professionals. Measurements: Thematic analysis of focus group transcripts. Results: Clinicians identified six functions in response to open-ended questions. After reviewing the eight functions described by parents, all clinicians agreed with the framework: building relationships, exchanging information, making decisions, enabling family self-management, managing uncertainty, responding to emotions, supporting hope, and providing validation. Conclusions: Pediatric oncology clinicians corroborated this functional communication framework. Clinicians and researchers can utilize this framework to guide care and research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ginny L Schulz
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Erica C Kaye
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Division of Population Sciences, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Haward MF, Lorenz JM, Janvier A, Fischhoff B. Bereaved Parents: Insights for the Antenatal Consultation. Am J Perinatol 2021; 40:874-882. [PMID: 34255335 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1731651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to explore experiences of extremely preterm infant loss in the delivery room and perspectives about antenatal consultation. STUDY DESIGN Bereaved participants were interviewed, following a semi-structured protocol. Personal narratives were analyzed with a mixed-methods approach. RESULTS In total, 13 participants, reflecting on 17 pregnancies, shared positive, healing and negative, harmful interactions with clinicians and institutions: feeling cared for or abandoned, doubted or believed, being treated rigidly or flexibly, and feeling that infant's life was valued or not. Participants stressed their need for personalized information, individualized approaches, and affective support. Their decision processes varied; some wanted different things for themselves than what they recommended for others. These interactions shaped their immediate experiences, long-term well-being, healing, and regrets. All had successful subsequent pregnancies; few returned to institutions where they felt poorly treated. CONCLUSION Antenatal consultations can be strengthened by personalizing them, within a strong caregiver relationship and supportive institutional practices. KEY POINTS · Personalized antenatal consultations should strive to balance cognitive and affective needs.. · Including perspectives from bereaved parents can strengthen antenatal consultations.. · Trusting provider-parent partnerships are pivotal for risk communication..
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlyse F Haward
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - John M Lorenz
- Department of Pediatrics, Morgan Stanley Children Hospital of New York, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, New York
| | - Annie Janvier
- Department of Pediatrics, Bureau de l'Éthique Clinique, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Division of Neonatology, Research Center, Clinical Ethics Unit, Palliative Care Unit, Unité de recherche en éthique clinique et partenariat famille, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
| | - Baruch Fischhoff
- Department of Engineering and Public Policy and Institute for Politics and Strategy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Mandrell BN, Gattuso JS, Pritchard M, Caples M, Howard Sharp KM, Harrison L, Ouma AA, Valdez JM, Johnson LM, Nichols KE. Knowledge Is Power: Benefits, Risks, Hopes, and Decision-Making Reported by Parents Consenting to Next-Generation Sequencing for Children and Adolescents with Cancer. Semin Oncol Nurs 2021; 37:151167. [PMID: 34127338 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2021.151167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To qualitatively describe parent perspectives of next-generation genomic sequencing (NGS) for their children with cancer, including perceived benefits, risks, hopes/expectations, and decision-making process when consenting or not consenting to NGS and prior to result disclosure. DATA SOURCES Qualitative interviews were used. CONCLUSION Altruism is an important factor in parents consenting to NGS testing, as well as making sense of their child's cancer and legacy building. Parents described realistic hopes and expectations associated with NGS participation. Although parents endorsed the likelihood of no medical benefit, those consenting to NGS felt there was no reason not to participate. Parents declining participation expressed avoidance of worry and parent guilt if a germline variant were to be disclosed. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE As NGS evolves into a component of the routine diagnostic workup for pediatric cancer patients, genetic nurses play a role in conducting informed consent conversations and ensuring that patients and families have realistic hopes and expectations associated with NGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda N Mandrell
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Division of Nursing Research, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.
| | - Jami S Gattuso
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Division of Nursing Research, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Michele Pritchard
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Division of Nursing Research, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Mary Caples
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Division of Nursing Research, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | - Lynn Harrison
- Department of Oncology, Division Cancer Predisposition, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Annastasia A Ouma
- Department of Oncology, Division Cancer Predisposition, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Jessica M Valdez
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque
| | - Liza-Marie Johnson
- Department of Oncology, Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Kim E Nichols
- Department of Oncology, Division Cancer Predisposition, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
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Denney-Koelsch E, Cote-Arsenault D. Life-limiting fetal conditions and pregnancy continuation: parental decision-making processes. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021:bmjspcare-2020-002857. [PMID: 34006514 PMCID: PMC8599500 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES When parents are facing a life-limiting fetal condition (LLFC), decision making about prenatal and neonatal care is very stressful. To participate in successful shared decision making, interdisciplinary care teams need to understand factors that parents consider and the process by which they make decisions about care of their baby. METHODS This study reports on findings about parental decision making from a larger longitudinal, naturalistic study of parents' experiences of continuing pregnancy with an LLFC. Mothers and fathers over 18 were interviewed in person, on phone or via video, twice during pregnancy and twice after birth and death. Transcripts were professionally transcribed and verified. Data were analysed with iterative coding and theme identification, using within-case and cross-case comparison. RESULTS Thirty parents (16 mothers, 13 fathers, 1 lesbian partner) from multiple US states and a range of racial/ethnic backgrounds were interviewed. Parents' experience with decision making was difficult, stressful and time-sensitive. They described a three-phase process: (1) identifying the decision to be made, (2) conducting a risk-benefit analysis to weigh objective medical information and subjective factors (values and spirituality, impact on self, partner, baby and the other children) and (3) making a decision. Parents considered diagnostic and prognostic certainty, likelihood of a good outcome and avoidance of suffering and regrets. CONCLUSION For shared-decision making, healthcare providers must discuss objective medical information as well as recognise parents' subjective values and priorities. This study expands on the literature on parental decision making around the numerous types of decisions after LLFC, informing obstetrics, neonatology and palliative care.
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Neumann ML, Weaver MS, Lord B, Wiener L, Hinds PS. Care Provider Behaviors That Shape Parent Identity as a "Good Parent" to Their Seriously Ill Child. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:113-121. [PMID: 33937910 PMCID: PMC8086518 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2021.0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Parents of medically complex children hold deeply personal definitions of how to be “good parents” that guide their medical decision making and interactions with providers and are impacted by provider behaviors. Objective: This study explored whether and how these beliefs are shaped by interactions with care providers and which provider behaviors foster or impede parents' ability to achieve their “good parent” definitions. Methods: A 63-item web-based survey distributed by an online support network for parents of medically complex children. Responses to closed- and open-ended questions from 67 caregivers based in the United States and Europe were analyzed. Results: Respondents' medical decisions are driven by goals of unselfishly doing what is best for my child (61%) and being my child's voice (18%). Almost half indicated that their personal “good parent” definition was impacted by provider behaviors or interactions with physicians or nurses. Although most parents reported wanting trusted care providers to ask them about their personal “good parent” definition, only 7% had ever been directly asked by members of their care teams about this topic. Provider behaviors such as kind and caring interactions, acknowledging the parents' role in caring for the child, and truly seeing the child as more than a diagnosis were reported as fostering caregivers' ability to achieve their “good parent” beliefs. Conclusions: The findings indicate that trusted provider-initiated conversations about “good parent” beliefs would be well received and are an opportunity to improve family-centered care. Care provider behaviors deemed by parents as supportive facilitate their efforts to achieve their “good parent” beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie L Neumann
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.,National Center for Ethics in Healthcare, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Blyth Lord
- Courageous Parents Network, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori Wiener
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Pamela S Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice and Quality, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, the George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Porter AS, Hinds PS, Livingston JD, October TW. "You Have Made All the Loving Choices": Good Parent Praise in Pediatric Critical Care Conferences. Hosp Pediatr 2021; 11:485-491. [PMID: 33883232 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2020-003319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Parents' ideas about what it means to be a "good parent" to their seriously ill child influence parental decision-making. Little is known about when, why, and how clinicians offer good-parent praise or how parents react. Our objective was to describe clinicians' spontaneous use of good-parent praise statements to parents during PICU care conferences and how parents respond. METHODS Single-center, cross-sectional review of 72 transcripts of audio-recorded PICU care conferences in a quaternary medical center. Qualitative analysis was conducted to code triggers for clinician good-parent statements and parent responses. RESULTS Clinicians made at least one statement of good-parent praise in 32% of family conferences. Triggers for clinician statements of good-parent praise were categorized into 6 themes: decision making, gratitude to the clinical team, defense of parenting, parental body language, parental guilt, and intention to close the meeting. Parental responses to clinician statements of good-parent praise fell into 6 themes: acknowledgment, medical talk, deepening of feelings expressed in conversation, focusing on a decision, redirecting on the patient, and gratitude. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians spontaneously praised parents for their role in being a good parent in less than one-third of family conferences. Clinician statements were triggered by verbal and nonverbal parental behaviors, a critical decision-making point in the conversation, and an intention to close the meeting. In response, parents frequently responded positively to the praise and often returned the gratitude or reflected on their feelings about caregiving for their child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Porter
- Center for Comprehensive Care, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio;
| | - Pamela S Hinds
- Nursing Research and Quality Outcomes and.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Jessica D Livingston
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; and
| | - Tessie W October
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; and
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Sisk BA, Zavadil JA, Blazin LJ, Baker JN, Mack JW, DuBois JM. Assume It Will Break: Parental Perspectives on Negative Communication Experiences in Pediatric Oncology. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e859-e871. [PMID: 33848191 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.01038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Communication breakdowns in pediatric oncology can have negative consequences for patients and families. A detailed analysis of these negative encounters will support clinicians in anticipating and responding to communication breakdowns. METHODS Semistructured interviews with 80 parents of children with cancer across three academic medical centers during treatment, survivorship, or bereavement. We analyzed transcripts using semantic content analysis. RESULTS Nearly all parents identified negative communication experiences (n = 76). We identified four categories of contributors to negative experiences: individual (n = 68), team (n = 26), organization (n = 46), and greater health care system (n = 8). These experiences involved a variety of health care professionals across multiple specialties. Parents reported 12 personal consequences of communication breakdowns: emotional distress (n = 65), insufficient understanding (n = 48), decreased trust or confidence (n = 37), inconvenience (n = 36), medical harm (n = 23), decreased self-confidence (n = 17), decreased emotional support (n = 13), decreased engagement (n = 9), false hope (n = 9), decreased hope (n = 7), financial insult (n = 7), and decreased access to resources (n = 3). We identified five categories of supportive responses from clinicians: exploring (n = 8), acknowledging (n = 17), informing (n = 27), adapting (n = 27), and advocating (n = 18). Parents often increased their own advocacy on behalf of their child (n = 47). Parents also identified the need for parental engagement in finding solutions (n = 12). Finally, one parent suggested that clinicians should assume that communication will fail and develop contingency plans in advance. CONCLUSION Communication breakdowns in pediatric oncology negatively affect parents and children. Clinicians should plan for communication breakdowns and respond by exploring, acknowledging, informing, adapting, advocating, and engaging parents in finding solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
| | - Jessica A Zavadil
- Department of Pediatrics, St Louis Children's Hospital, St Louis, MO
| | - Lindsay J Blazin
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Justin N Baker
- Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.,Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Pediatric Oncology and Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - James M DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO
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Honoring the Good Parent Intentions of Courageous Parents: A Thematic Summary from a US-Based National Survey. CHILDREN-BASEL 2020; 7:children7120265. [PMID: 33271834 PMCID: PMC7760659 DOI: 10.3390/children7120265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with complex medical needs describe an internal, personal definition of "trying to be a good parent" for their loved child. Gaps exist in the current "good parent concept" literature: (1) When the idea of "trying to be a good parent" comes into existence for parents, (2) How parents' definition of "being a good parent" may change over time and may influence interactions with the child, and (3) Whether parents perceive attainment of their personal definition. AIM The purpose of this study was to explore these current gaps in the "good parent concept" knowledge base from the perspective of parents of children with chronic or complex illness. MATERIALS AND METHODS These themes were explored through a 63-item, mixed-method web-based survey distributed by the Courageous Parents Network (CPN), an organization and online platform that orients, educates, and empowers families and providers caring for seriously ill children. RESULTS The term "trying to be a good parent" resonated with 85% of the 67 responding parents. For the majority of parents, the concept of "being a good parent" started to exist in parental awareness before the child's birth (70.2%) and evolved over time (67.5%) to include less judgment and more self-compassion. Parents identified their awareness of their child's prognosis and changing health as influential on their "trying to be a good parent" concept. Parental advocacy, child's age, and duration of illness were reported as influencing parental perceptions of having achieved their definition of "being a good parent". CONCLUSIONS Familiarity with parental perspectives on their parenting goodness and goals is a necessary core of family-centric health care.
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Sisk BA, Antes AL, Burrous S, DuBois JM. Parental Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence-Driven Precision Medicine Technologies in Pediatric Healthcare. CHILDREN-BASEL 2020; 7:children7090145. [PMID: 32962204 PMCID: PMC7552627 DOI: 10.3390/children7090145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Precision medicine relies upon artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies that raise ethical and practical concerns. In this study, we developed and validated a measure of parental openness and concerns with AI-driven technologies in their child's healthcare. In this cross-sectional survey, we enrolled parents of children <18 years in 2 rounds for exploratory (n = 418) and confirmatory (n = 386) factor analysis. We developed a 12-item measure of parental openness to AI-driven technologies, and a 33-item measure identifying concerns that parents found important when considering these technologies. We also evaluated associations between openness and attitudes, beliefs, personality traits, and demographics. Parents (N = 804) reported mean openness to AI-driven technologies of M = 3.4/5, SD = 0.9. We identified seven concerns that parents considered important when evaluating these technologies: quality/accuracy, privacy, shared decision making, convenience, cost, human element of care, and social justice. In multivariable linear regression, parental openness was positively associated with quality (beta = 0.23), convenience (beta = 0.16), and cost (beta = 0.11), as well as faith in technology (beta = 0.23) and trust in health information systems (beta = 0.12). Parental openness was negatively associated with the perceived importance of shared decision making (beta = -0.16) and being female (beta = -0.12). Developers might support parental openness by addressing these concerns during the development and implementation of novel AI-driven technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A. Sisk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +314-273-9084
| | - Alison L. Antes
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (A.L.A.); (J.M.D.)
| | - Sara Burrous
- Brown School, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA;
| | - James M. DuBois
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (A.L.A.); (J.M.D.)
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50
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Weaver MS, Hinds P, Kellas JK, Hecht ML. Identifying as a Good Parent: Considering the Communication Theory of Identity for Parents of Children Receiving Palliative Care. J Palliat Med 2020; 24:305-309. [PMID: 32865455 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Parents of seriously ill children are at risk of psychosocial morbidity, which may be mitigated by competent family-centered communication and role-affirming conversations. Parent caregivers describe a guiding desire to do a good job in their parenting role but also depict struggling under the intense weight of parental duty. Objectives and Design: Through this case study, the Communication Theory of Identity (CTI) provides a framework for conceptualizing how palliative care teams can help parents cope with this reality. CTI views communication with care teams as formative in the development and enablement of parental perceptions of their "good parenting" role. Results: Palliative care teams may consider the four frames of identity (personal, enacted, relational, and communal) as meaningful dimensions of the parental pursuit to care well for an ill child. Conclusion: Palliative care teams may consider compassionate communication about parental roles to support the directional virtues of multilayered dynamic parental identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Pamela Hinds
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice and Quality, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jody Koenig Kellas
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Michael L Hecht
- Distinguished Professor Emeritus for the Department of Communication Arts and Sciences, Penn State College of the Liberal Arts, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA.,REAL Prevention, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
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