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Huang Y, Chen M, Wang Y, Qi Y, Zhang L, Dong C. Resiliency process in the family after childhood leukaemia diagnosis: A longitudinal qualitative study. J Clin Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38923757 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17224] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
AIMS To construct a conceptual framework on the process of family resilience during the first year following childhood leukaemia diagnosis. DESIGN A longitudinal qualitative interview study. METHODS A longitudinal qualitative study following a grounded theory methodology was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of children with leukaemia in a general hospital. The participants were recruited through purposive and theoretical sampling and longitudinal engagement was achieved by conducting interviews at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the leukaemia diagnosis. The core category and categories were saturated following the enrolment of parents of children with leukaemia. Data collection and analyses were performed simultaneously. RESULTS Sixteen parents of children with leukaemia participated. The core category of 'families living with childhood leukaemia' refers to the process of family resilience during the first year following childhood leukaemia diagnosis, which includes three phases: (1) destruction and resiliency period; (2) adjustment and consolidation period; and (3) growth and planning period. CONCLUSION This study explored the dynamic, complex and continuous processes of resilience among families coping with childhood leukaemia during the first year following diagnosis. Further research should design tailored family interventions that characterise the different phases of family resilience, aiming to support family well-being, integrity and functioning. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE Both families and healthcare professionals must create an enabling environment that supports families coping with difficulties. Understanding the different phases of family resilience allows healthcare professionals to provide holistic care that meets the demands of families with childhood leukaemia. IMPACT Unique knowledge emerged about the family's resiliency process when facing childhood leukaemia, suggesting a family-led revolution in understanding and managing childhood leukaemia. Therefore, the development of phased, resilience-based family interventions is imperative. REPORTING METHOD This study was reported using the COREQ checklist. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Patients contributed via study participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Huang
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Meijia Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuxin Wang
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yi Qi
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liping Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chaoqun Dong
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Phiri L, Li WHC, Cheung AT, Phiri PGMC. Effectiveness of psychoeducation interventions in reducing negative psychological outcomes and improving coping skills in caregivers of children with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychooncology 2023; 32:1514-1527. [PMID: 37639282 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Psychoeducation interventions (PEIs) have been used as an adjunct treatment for negative psychological outcomes in caregivers of children with cancer. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the evidence on the effectiveness of PEIs in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms and improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and coping skills in caregivers of children with cancer. METHOD Ten English databases were searched to identify studies on PEIs for caregivers of children with cancer. Studies inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) participants who were caregivers of children with cancer receiving treatment; (2) psychoeducational interventions assessing anxiety, depressive symptoms, HRQoL, and coping outcomes; and (3) usual care, waitlist, or active control as a control group. Meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were used to analyse data. RESULTS Fourteen randomised control trials were included. PEIs have a beneficial effect on anxiety levels (SMD: -0.59, 95% CI [-0.92, -0.25], p = 0.0007), quality of life (SMD: -0.31, 95% CI [-0.00, -0.61], p = 0.05) and depressive symptoms (SMD: -1.18, 95% CI [-2.08, -0.28], p = 0.01) immediately post-intervention. The effect of PEIs was maintained at long-term follow-up on depressive symptoms (SMD: -0.52, 95% CI [-1.54, -0.36], p = 0.0004). Similarly, the synthesised data suggest that PEIs are effective in improving coping skills. CONCLUSION The review provides evidence that PEIs effectively reduce negative psychological outcomes and improve coping skills in caregivers of children with cancer. However, due to methodological flaws and heterogeneity of the interventions evaluated, more research is needed to determine the most effective PEI design and improve the quality of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lophina Phiri
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William Ho Cheung Li
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ankie Tan Cheung
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick G M C Phiri
- Institute of Applied Technology, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Shattnawi KK, Al Ali N, Almanasreh AA, Al-Motlaq MA. Caregiver burden among parents of children with chronic diseases: A cross-sectional study. J Clin Nurs 2023; 32:6485-6493. [PMID: 36880224 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study aimed to assess the perceived caregiver burden among parents of chronically ill children in Jordan. BACKGROUND Although there are few studies on the accurate prevalence of chronic diseases among Jordanian children, there are a few on the burden of caregiving, which is important because most children with chronic illness rely on their caregivers to perform their daily tasks. In Jordan, little is known about the caregiver burden associated with caring for children with chronic diseases. DESIGN A cross-sectional design was reported in line with the STROBE guidelines. METHODS The Katz Index of Independence was used to determine the children's level of dependence, and the Burden Scale for Family Caregivers was used to measure the caregivers' level of burden. RESULTS Nearly, 49.3% of caregivers had a very severe burden, 31.2% of children had a severe functional impairment, 19.6% had a moderate impairment, and 49.3% had full functionality. Based on their children's dependency, caregivers' subjective burden varied greatly (p < .001). Fully functional children had a far lower disease burden than severely and moderately disabled children (p < .001). The caregiver burden score differed significantly across chronic disease categories (p < .001). Unemployed caregivers had a far higher subjective burden than working caregivers (p = .009), and single (divorced/widowed) caregivers had higher burdens than married caregivers. CONCLUSIONS Various factors can increase caregiver burden. Therefore, healthcare providers must plan holistic and family-centred interventions to reduce the caregiving burden. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE There is a need to establish support programs to help reduce the level of burden among caregivers of children with chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khulood Kayed Shattnawi
- Maternal & Child Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Nahla Al Ali
- Community and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ala'a Aref Almanasreh
- Maternal & Child Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohammad A Al-Motlaq
- Department of Maternal Child and Family Health, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
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Wan Ghazali WS, Minhat HS, Mohd Zulkefli NA, Ahmad N, Ismail F, Mashudi DN, Mud Shukri MI, Kanthavelu C. Systematic review on factors associated with depression among mothers of children with cancer. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285366. [PMID: 37616287 PMCID: PMC10449221 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite evidence of depression among mothers of children with cancer, there appears to be a lack of studies or concern regarding factors associated with depression among these mothers. OBJECTIVE To review the factors associated with depression among mothers of children with cancer. METHOD Pubmed, Medline, Cochrane, CINAHL, Psychology, and Behavioural Sciences Collection, and Academic Search Complete were searched according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify studies published between 2010 to 2022 on the associated risk factors of depression among mothers of children with cancer. The keywords used included mothers OR maternal' AND 'Child*' AND 'cancer OR tumo*r OR neoplasm' AND 'factors OR facilitators AND barriers OR predictors OR determinants AND 'depression'. Selected studies were evaluated by quality assessment. RESULT Five articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The factors associated with depression among mothers of children were socio-demographic risk factors (marital status, education level, annual income, child cancer diagnosis), and stress factors (caregiving stress, cancer-related stress, general stress). There were other factors associated with depression that act as mediators along the process which were emotion-focused coping and perceived social support. CONCLUSION Besides the commonly reported socio-demographic risk factors (marital status, education level, and annual income), other factors include stress factors (caregiving stress, cancer-related stress, and general stress). Furthermore, emotion-focused coping and perceived social support act as mediators along the process. More studies are warranted to explore depression among these mothers to ensure the most appropriate and effective preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Norliza Ahmad
- Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Fatin Ismail
- Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Bryl K, Tortora S, Whitley J, Kim SD, Raghunathan NJ, Mao JJ, Chimonas S. Utilization, Delivery, and Outcomes of Dance/Movement Therapy for Pediatric Oncology Patients and their Caregivers: A Retrospective Chart Review. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:6497-6507. [PMID: 37504337 PMCID: PMC10378356 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30070477] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with cancer and their caregivers face physical and psychosocial challenges during and after treatment. Dance/movement therapy (DMT) has been used to improve well-being, promote healthy coping, and mitigate the impact of illness, but limited knowledge exists regarding DMT utilization, delivery, and outcomes in pediatric oncology. This retrospective study aimed to identify reasons for referral to DMT, DMT visit characteristics, key DMT techniques and processes, and clinician-reported outcomes. We examined the electronic medical records of 100 randomly selected pediatric patients (resulting in 1160 visits) who received DMT services between 2011 and 2021. Sociodemographic, clinical, and visit characteristics, referral reasons, and clinician-reported outcomes were reported as frequency and proportions. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to identify key DMT techniques and processes. Among 100 patients (63% female, aged 0-27 years), 77.9% were referred for psychological distress and 19.6% for pain. Two distinct DMT approaches were used during visits: a traditional DMT approach (77%) and a multisensory DMT approach (23%). The most common visit length was 15-25 min (41.6%), followed by sessions of 30-45 min (22.5%) and ≤10 min (18.1%). A total of 61.9% of DMT visits were inpatient and 38.1% outpatient. Of all visits, 8.8% were new and 91.2% were follow-ups. Caregivers were engaged in treatment in 43.7% of visits, and 5.5% of visits focused entirely on the work with the caregiver. DMT intervention focused on self-expression, emotional self-regulation, coping strategies, socialization, and caregiver-child interaction. Clinician-reported outcomes included enhanced coping with hospital experience (58%), improved pain management (27%), improved self-regulation (21%), and increased physical activation (13.2%). The results suggest DMT as a supportive intervention for psychological distress and pain management in pediatric oncology patients and provide insights into DMT practices and outcomes to guide intervention development and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Bryl
- Department of Medicine, Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (K.B.)
| | - Suzi Tortora
- Department of Medicine, Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (K.B.)
- MSK Kids, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jennifer Whitley
- Department of Medicine, Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (K.B.)
- MSK Kids, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Soo-Dam Kim
- Department of Medicine, Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (K.B.)
| | - Nirupa J. Raghunathan
- Department of Medicine, Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (K.B.)
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jun J. Mao
- Department of Medicine, Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (K.B.)
| | - Susan Chimonas
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
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I Vlachos Ι, Ktena Y, Athanasiadou A, Charmandari E, Moschovi M. Psychosocial adaptation of families with children newly diagnosed with cancer in the Greek population amidst the socioeconomic crisis. J Psychosoc Oncol 2023; 41:673-686. [PMID: 36621825 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2022.2160943] [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: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present the initial assessment of psychosocial adaptation among Greek parents whose children were newly diagnosed with cancer amidst the turmoil of an ongoing financial crisis. STUDY DESIGN This prospective observational study used a quantitative approach. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-one parents of children with cancer treated at a large urban tertiary-care children's hospital were prospectively recruited to participate in our study during the first week of their child's diagnosis (2013-2016). METHODS The parents were asked to complete the psychosocial assessment tool (PAT 2.0), Zung Depression Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and World Health Organization Quality of Life-Bref Instrument; Moreover, three female healthcare providers (the physician oncologist, the head nurse and a senior nurse) completed the relevant PAT 2.0 -Staff Perceptions questionnaire the results of which were then compared to those of the child's parent. FINDINGS The majority of parents had PAT 2.0 scores indicative of increased psychosocial risk :54% were stratified into the "Targeted" (moderate risk) and 15% into the "Clinical" (highest risk) categories, whereas healthcare providers underestimated psychosocial risk in 57%-59% of the cases. The subscales that most contributed to the increased scores were Parental Stress Reaction, Family Structure and Resources, and Family Social Support. The PAT 2.0 had statistically significant correlations with most of the anxiety and depression scales, with Zung having the strongest correlation (r-value: +0.5, p-value <0.01). Our cohort presented more anxiety and depression compared to the general Greek population (14% for depression versus 2,9% for the general population and 46% for anxiety compared to 4,1%) in the years of financial recession in Greece. CONCLUSIONS The parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer in Greece are at increased risk for developing anxiety and depression in the years of financial recession in Greece compared to general population. IMPLICATIONS FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL PROVIDERS Parental stress reaction to diagnosis as well as lack of family resources and social support may contribute to this difference. Screening for psychosocial risk factors is essential for the early identification of these families and for the optimal utilization of the limited available resources in times of economic hardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ιlias I Vlachos
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sοphia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
- First Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Yiouli Ktena
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sοphia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, John Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anastasia Athanasiadou
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sοphia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Charmandari
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens Medical School, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Moschovi
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sοphia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Liu Y, Sundquist J, Sundquist K, Zheng D, Ji J. Mental health outcomes in parents of children with a cancer diagnosis in Sweden: A nationwide cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 55:101734. [PMID: 36419464 PMCID: PMC9676277 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101734] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of paediatric cancer is a crisis for the parents who are the primary caregivers of the affected child. A comprehensive assessment of the longitudinal impact of childhood cancer on parental mental health and the potential sex differences between the parents is lacking. Thus, we aimed to explore the subsequent short- and long-term mental health outcomes among the parents of children with cancer and examine whether the outcomes vary between the mother and father. METHODS By combining several Swedish registers, parents of a child (ages 0-14 years) with a cancer diagnosis between Jan 1, 2006, and Dec 31, 2016 were identified. For each parent of children with cancer, up to five mothers or fathers of cancer-free children were randomly selected and matched, respectively. Hospital contacts for any mental health disorders between 5 years before and 7 years after the diagnosis of childhood cancer were retrieved. An interrupted time series negative binomial regression was performed to assess the short- and long-term impact of a childhood cancer diagnosis on the parents' subsequent mental health outcomes. FINDINGS 16,199 mothers (2852 with a child with cancer and 13,347 without) and 15,708 fathers (2769 with a child with cancer and 12,939 without) were included in this study. Compared with mothers of children without cancer, mothers of children with cancer had higher risks of mental health disorders in the first year after diagnosis (rate ratio [RR] and 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.17 (1.03-1.32)), and notably, the adverse impact became more severe over time (RR and 95% CI, 1.36 (1.07-1.74), in the seventh year). For fathers of children with cancer, the risk of mental health disorders was continuously higher compared to matched comparisons (RR and 95% CI, 1.31 (1.01-1.71)). INTERPRETATION Our findings suggested that parental mental health was affected continuously by a diagnosis of childhood cancer in their children. In particular, the mother's mental health was affected more severely. Customised psychological services or interventions are highly needed for the parents of children with cancer. FUNDING Swedish Research Council, Allmänna Sjukhusets i Malmö Stiftelsen för bekämpande av cancer, Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation, ALF funding from Region Skåne and China Scholarship Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yishan Liu
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Jan Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Center for Community-based Healthcare Research and Education (CoHRE), Department of Functional Pathology, School of Medicine, Shimane University, Japan
| | - Kristina Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Center for Community-based Healthcare Research and Education (CoHRE), Department of Functional Pathology, School of Medicine, Shimane University, Japan
| | - Deqiang Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Jianguang Ji
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
- Corresponding author.
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Bretones Nieto B, Pozo Muñoz C, Vázquez López MÁ. Needs Assessment in Parents of Children Affected by Cancer: A Qualitative Perspective. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9121957. [PMID: 36553400 PMCID: PMC9776725 DOI: 10.3390/children9121957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer is a "stressful experience" for parents in their role as caregivers. The aim of this study is to analyze the needs of a group of parents who have children diagnosed with cancer. The assessment looks at all areas of their daily life using a qualitative content analysis approach. METHODS This study uses open questions designed to investigate the main problems faced by the parents of children with cancer. All the answers were analyzed using MAXQDA 20 software. The study was conducted according to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ). RESULTS The content analysis of the answers from 13 mothers and 7 fathers is presented. The main themes as priority areas of need were: "informal social support", "coping", "stressors/imbalances" and "health problems". Dissatisfaction with the support provided from the informal network was detected. Although the participants expressed active coping, they also exhibited helplessness, as well as concerns regarding possible sequelae and the impact of this situation on the family's economic/work context. Conciliation problems were a source of stress. All this is consistent with the participants suffering from a variety of health issues. CONCLUSIONS the results show the effect of childhood cancer on different aspects of family life. They provide essential information for designing psychosocial interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Bretones Nieto
- Department of Psychology, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Carmen Pozo Muñoz
- Department of Psychology, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain
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Boychuk NA, Mulrooney NS, Kelly NR, Goldenberg AJ, Silver EJ, Wasserstein MP. Parental Depression and Anxiety Associated with Newborn Bloodspot Screening for Rare and Variable-Onset Disorders. Int J Neonatal Screen 2022; 8:ijns8040059. [PMID: 36412585 PMCID: PMC9680490 DOI: 10.3390/ijns8040059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to screen newborns for a larger number of disorders, including many with variable phenotypes, is prompting debate regarding the psychosocial impact of expanded newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) on parents. This study compares psychological outcomes of parents of children with a range of NBS/diagnostic experiences, with a particular focus on lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) and X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) as representative disorders with complex presentations. An online cross-sectional survey with six domains was completed in 2019 by a volunteer sample of parents with at least one child born between 2013 and 2018. Parents were classified in the analysis stage into four groups based on their child's rare disorder and means of diagnosis. Stress and depression were estimated using dichotomous measures of the depression subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Parental Stress Scale. Logistic regression models were estimated for the relationship between the parent group and stress/depression, controlling for demographic variables (region of the US, income, education, major life events, relationship to the child, number of children, parent age, and race/ethnicity). One hundred seventy-four parents were included in this analysis. Parents of children with an LSD or X-ALD diagnosis clinically may have higher odds of depression (OR: 6.06, 95% CI: 1.64-24.96) compared to parents of children with the same disorders identified through NBS, controlling for covariates. Although a similar pattern was observed for parental stress (OR: 2.85, 95% CI: 0.82-10.37), this did not reach statistical significance. Ethically expanding NBS and genome sequencing require an understanding of the impacts of early detection for complex disorders on families. These initial findings are reassuring, and may have implications as NBS expands. Given our small sample size, it is difficult to generalize these findings to all families. These preliminary trends warrant further investigation in larger and more diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A. Boychuk
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Niamh S. Mulrooney
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Nicole R. Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Aaron J. Goldenberg
- Department of Bioethics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ellen J. Silver
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
| | - Melissa P. Wasserstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA
- Correspondence:
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Belza C, Ungar WJ, Avitzur Y, Stremler R, Fehlings D, Wales PW. Carrying the Burden: Informal Care Requirements by Caregivers of Children with Intestinal Failure Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition. J Pediatr 2022; 250:75-82.e3. [PMID: 35660493 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.05.049] [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: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure the time that caregivers spend on tasks related to providing care to their child with intestinal failure receiving home parenteral nutrition (PN). STUDY DESIGN We conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study of caregivers of children with intestinal failure receiving long-term PN followed by our intestinal rehabilitation program. Caregivers completed a daily diary of care-related tasks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Exploratory models were completed to evaluate factors that influenced the amount of time that caregivers spent providing care. SAS University Edition 2018 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC) was used for data analysis with a P value of less than .05 considered significant. RESULTS Thirty-four caregivers of children with intestinal failure consented with response rates of 85%. The mean age of the primary caregiver was 37 ± 7.9 years of age with 97% being the child's mother. The median PN exposure was 1239 days (IQR, 432-3012). Caregivers reported a median of 29.2 hours per week (IQR, 20.8-45.7 hours per week) of direct medical care. The majority of time was spent on providing PN and care of the central venous catheter (6.1 hours; IQR, 5.2-8.8). CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of children with intestinal failure receiving long-term PN provide a significant amount of care to ensure their child remains healthy at home. The most significant amounts of time were spent on the administration of the PN and care of the central venous catheter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Belza
- Group for Improvement of Intestinal Function and Treatment (GIFT), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wendy J Ungar
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yaron Avitzur
- Group for Improvement of Intestinal Function and Treatment (GIFT), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robyn Stremler
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Darcy Fehlings
- Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul W Wales
- Group for Improvement of Intestinal Function and Treatment (GIFT), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Intestinal Rehabilitation, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH.
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11
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Davies J, O'Connor M, Halkett GKB, Kelada L, Bosco AM, Gottardo NG. 'Torn in two': Experiences of Mothers Who Are Pregnant when Their Child Is Diagnosed With Cancer. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:1795-1808. [PMID: 35976776 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221117924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Mothers of children diagnosed with cancer have been shown to experience high rates of psychological distress and poor physical health. Pregnancy further increases the healthcare needs of mothers due to the marked physiological changes and psychological adaptations. Our study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers who were pregnant and/or had a baby while their older child was receiving treatment for cancer. Our study employed a qualitative description methodology using semi-structured interviews. Participants were recruited from across Australia via notices on social media sites and the distribution of flyers. The sample comprised 13 mothers who were pregnant and/or had a baby and had a child diagnosed with cancer who was under 17 years old. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data from which six themes were identified: (1) an impossible balancing act, (2) mother's health and well-being, (3) creating certainty: birthing plans, (4) a bit of sunshine and a time to rest, (5) challenges of caring for the baby and (6) an unenviable position: doing my best versus feeling guilty. Our study demonstrates the additional challenges faced by mothers who are pregnant while their child is receiving cancer treatment. There is a need for a comprehensive and coordinated program that provides pregnant mothers with practical and psychological support. The implementation of such a program has the potential to improve health outcomes for all family members, particularly the mother and their newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Davies
- 1649School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- 1649School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Georgia K B Halkett
- 1649Curtin School of Nursing / Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Lauren Kelada
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Anna Maria Bosco
- 1649Curtin School of Nursing / Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Nicholas G Gottardo
- 117610Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- 2720University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- 60081Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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Chaghazardi M, Janatolmakan M, Rezaeian S, Khatony A. Care burden and associated factors in caregivers of children with cancer. Ital J Pediatr 2022; 48:92. [PMID: 35698160 PMCID: PMC9195224 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-022-01291-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence suggests that many parents who care for their children with cancer are affected by the care burden due to the chronic nature of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine the burden of care level and its related factors in the caregivers of children with cancer. Method A total of 270 caregivers of children with cancer were included in this cross-sectional study by convenience sampling method. Data collection tools were a personal information form and the Novak & Guest’s Caregiver Burden Inventory. Data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square and univariate linear regression model). Results The mean ages of caregivers and patients were 35.7 ± 7.0 and 3.1 ± 1.6 years, respectively. The mean care burden was 68.4 ± 1.5 out of 120. About 50 and 36% of caregivers had moderate and severe care burden, respectively. Conclusion Caregivers had moderate to high care burden. A number of factors associated with care burden were identified. Health authorities need to take family-centered measures to reduce the burden of caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Chaghazardi
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Maryam Janatolmakan
- Social Development and Health Promotion Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Shahab Rezaeian
- School of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Alireza Khatony
- Social Development and Health Promotion Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran. .,Infectious Diseases Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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13
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The Psychological Adaptation Process in Chinese Parent Caregivers of Pediatric Leukemia Patients: A Qualitative Analysis. Cancer Nurs 2021; 45:E835-E842. [PMID: 34966062 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological stresses caused by caring for pediatric leukemia patients can affect their parent caregivers' health. How these stressors are successfully managed determines how well these caregivers adapt to the illness situation over time. Previous studies suggest that caregivers will adapt gradually to the adverse consequences of caring for their child with a long-term illness. However, studies of the psychological adaptation process of family caregivers of children with leukemia are limited. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to study the psychological adaptation process of the parent caregivers of pediatric leukemia patients. METHODS In this qualitative study, we interviewed 32 caregivers of children with leukemia in China. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and analyzed using the content analysis method. RESULTS The psychological adaptation process in caregivers of pediatric leukemia patients seems to involve 5 stages: initial devastation, accumulation of hope, fluctuation in feelings, integration, and psychological adaptation. Significant emotional changes were observed at each stage. CONCLUSIONS This study identified commonalities in the psychological adaptation process experienced by caregivers of children with leukemia in the Chinese social and cultural context. It also characterized the different emotions that the caregivers had in the 5 stages of adaptation. In addition, our research identified the possible psychological interventions at different stages. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The study described the adaptation process of Chinese parents of children with leukemia. The findings of this study will help nurses identify main coping resources, controllable intervention factors, and the timing of intervention for these caregivers of children with leukemia.
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14
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Davies J, O'Connor M, Halkett GKB, Kelada L, Gottardo NG. Parents' Experiences of Childhood Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Australian Perspective. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 47:148-157. [PMID: 34865100 PMCID: PMC8690259 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsab125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 has had far-reaching impacts including changes in work, travel, social structures, education, and healthcare. Objective This study aimed to explore the experiences of parents of children receiving treatment for cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Parents whose children were currently in treatment for childhood cancer or had completed treatment in the previous 12 months, participated in semi-structured interviews, face-to-face or via teleconferencing. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Results The sample consisted of 34 participants (17 fathers and 17 mothers) from all states across Australia. Median age 37.5 years (range 29–51, years, SD = 6.3). Five main themes were identified: “Welcome to the Club”; “Remote Work and Study”; “Silver Linings”; “The Loneliest Experience” with three sub-themes “Immediate Family”; “Friends”; and “Overseas Family” and “Lack of Support” with two sub-themes: “Community Support” and “Organized Support.” Conclusion These findings revealed contrasting experiences of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For parents whose children were neutropenic, the pandemic provided benefits in increased community understanding of infection control. Parents also reflected that the movement to remote work made it easier to earn an income. In contrast, some parents observed that restrictions on visitors and family intensified feelings of isolation. Parents also described how the COVID-19 reduced access to support services. These findings contribute to an understanding of the multifaceted impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on families of children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Davies
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Australia.,WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Georgia K B Halkett
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Lauren Kelada
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia.,Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Australia
| | - Nicholas G Gottardo
- Brain Tumour Research Programme, Telethon Kids Institute, Australia.,Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology/Haematology, Perth Children's Hospital, Australia
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15
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Tan CE, Lau SCD, Latiff ZA, Lee CC, Teh KH, Sidik SM. Information needs of Malaysian parents of children with cancer: a qualitative study. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2021; 9:143-152. [PMID: 35494095 PMCID: PMC9052854 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2021.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Informational support is an important pillar of psychosocial care for parents of children with cancer. Understanding the information needs of these parents may improve the provision of family-centered informational support. This paper aims to explore the information needs of Malaysian parents whose children have cancer. Methods This qualitative study was conducted among 14 parents of children with cancer and 8 healthcare providers. The parents were recruited from two urban pediatric oncology centers in Malaysia. Healthcare providers were recruited from these centers, as well as from community-based palliative care providers. In-depth interviews were conducted based on semi-structured topic guides, audio-recorded, and transcribed for thematic analysis using elements of the grounded theory approach. Results Analysis revealed three themes of information needs, which were: “interaction with the healthcare system,” “care for the child at home” and “psychosocial support for parents”. Information needs on parents’ interaction with the healthcare system consisted of disease and treatment-related information, as well as health system navigation. Information needs on care for the child at home were represented by their caregiving for basic activities of daily living, medical caregiving, and psychosocial caregiving. Psychosocial support for parents included information on practical support and self-care. There were differences in priorities for information needs between parents and healthcare providers. Conclusions Meeting the information needs of parents is an important part of psychosocial care in pediatric cancer care. Informational support may empower parents in caregiving for their child. The development of suitable information resources will be invaluable for healthcare providers in supporting parents’ needs.
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Schultz CL, McCahan SM, Lewis AM, Bunnell HT, Alderfer MA. Online patient portal use by caregivers in pediatric oncology: Are we widening sociodemographic disparities? Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29373. [PMID: 34582096 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial and regulatory incentives have encouraged and increased the availability of online patient portals that provide caregivers access to their child's electronic health records (EHR). Such access is believed to promote better engagement and outcomes of care. Little is known about the use of portals by caregivers of children with cancer. This study sought to examine whether sociodemographic and clinical care variables are associated with portal activation in a pediatric oncology sample. METHODS Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were extracted from the EHR of pediatric oncology patients treated for their first cancer in the Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders between 2012 and 2017. A Child Opportunity Index (COI) was calculated based on home zip code. Characteristics of children whose caregivers did and did not activate the portal were compared. RESULTS Sixty-six percent of caregivers activated a portal account with a peak within 90 days of diagnosis. In logistic regression, caregivers with a younger aged child, spoke English, lived closer to the hospital, lived in higher COI area, with longer treatment length, and more radiology tests had greater odds of portal activation. Those with private health insurance or White race were overrepresented among those who activated an account in univariate analysis. CONCLUSION The majority of caregivers of children with cancer activate portal accounts; however, differences in sociodemographic and clinical variables across those who did and did not activate accounts emerged. As portals become ubiquitous, we must understand how they are used and mitigate widening inequities caused by disparate portal use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna L Schultz
- Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Suzanne M McCahan
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Nemours Biomedical Research Informatics Center, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Amanda M Lewis
- Center for Healthcare Delivery Science, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - H Timothy Bunnell
- Nemours Biomedical Research Informatics Center, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Melissa A Alderfer
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Center for Healthcare Delivery Science, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
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Parental Stress as the Mediator Between Symptom Burden and the Quality of Life of Chinese Children With Cancer. Cancer Nurs 2021; 45:E775-E781. [PMID: 34732679 PMCID: PMC9415217 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Because of their cancer and treatment adverse effects, most pediatric oncology patients will experience 1 or more symptoms at one time that can seriously affect their quality of life. Because these children are attached to parents, their symptom burden directly influences the parental stress level and parental interpretations of their children’s quality of life.
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18
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Atout M, Almomani EM, Alhusban RY, Al-Tarawneh FS, Mohammad S. Stress levels and coping strategies among Jordanian parents caring for newly diagnosed children with leukemia: A cross sectional descriptive correlational study. J Psychosoc Oncol 2021; 40:632-651. [PMID: 34711128 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2021.1995802] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the stress experienced and coping approaches exhibited by Jordanian parents of children recently diagnosed with leukemia. This cross-sectional study collected data from parents of children who had been diagnosed with leukemia within the previous three months (N = 130; 57 fathers (43.8%) and 73 mothers (56.2%), age (Mean = 37.5, SD = 8.4)). The Parenting Stress Index-Short Form was used. Similarly, parents' coping approaches were assessed with the Coping Health Inventory for Parents. Parents' mean total stress and coping strategies scores were 108 (± 26.8) and 93.9 (± 15.6), respectively. There were significant negative relationships between parents' stress levels and age (r = -0.46, p = .01), education level (f = 28.5, p < .05), and income (r = -0.65, p = .01). Additionally, there were significant positive relationships between parents' coping strategies and age (r = 0.34, p = .01) and income (r = 0.53, p < .01). There were non-significant differences between fathers' and mothers' stress levels and coping strategies. Parents of children with leukemia experienced high stress. The findings also confirmed the negative relationship between parents' stress, age, education level, and income; and the positive relationship between parents' coping strategies, age, and income. Several strategies are needed to manage said stress; for example, respite care for parents who spend long hours at the hospital. Volunteers to care for children at home or hospital might also relieve parents' stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Atout
- School of Nursing, Philadelphia University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Eshraf M Almomani
- USAID Health Service Delivery-Abt Associates, Sweifieh, Amman, Jordan
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Ozdemir Koyu H, Tas Arslan F. The effect of physical and psychosocial symptoms on caregiver burden of parents of children with cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2021; 30:e13513. [PMID: 34632650 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of parent's characteristics, physical and psychosocial symptoms, and child-related factors on caregiver burden of parents of children with cancer. METHODS This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study that included 172 parents of children with cancer. This study was performed between February and July 2019 in three major paediatric haematology and oncology units located in the centre of Turkey. Data were collected by using the descriptive information form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Piper Fatigue Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, Trait Scale of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale. For data analysis, average and percentage calculations and multiple linear regression analyses were used. RESULTS It was found that most of parents had poor sleep quality, moderate depression, fatigue, anxiety, high social support and moderate to severe caregiver burden. It was found that low education level, poor sleep quality, depression, trait anxiety, social support among the factors related to the parents, and the type of treatment and duration of the treatment from the factors related to the child had an effect on the caregiver burden. It was determined that the effective predictive factors explained 73.5% of the parents' caregiver burden. CONCLUSION Caregiver burden is influenced by the parent- and child-related factors. Paediatric oncology nurses should plan interventions that support parents to cope with the caregiver burden during their children's cancer experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Ozdemir Koyu
- Nursing Faculty, Department of Child Health and Diseases Nursing, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Fatma Tas Arslan
- Nursing Faculty, Department of Child Health and Diseases Nursing, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
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20
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Health-Related and Economic Burden Among Family Caregivers of Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia or Hematological Malignancies. Adv Ther 2021; 38:5002-5024. [PMID: 34499319 PMCID: PMC8478752 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-021-01872-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is associated with lower survival and greater unmet need compared with some other hematologic malignancies (HMs). Despite differences in acuteness between AML and other HMs, the burden of family caregivers (FCs) of patients with these malignancies offer similar patient experiences. A targeted literature review was conducted to explore FC burden of patients with AML and HM with and without hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Instruments to measure and interventions to address FC burden were identified. Methods Studies on economic burden and compromised health-related quality of life (HRQoL) associated with FC burden, family affairs, and childcare from 1 January 2010 to 30 June 2019 were identified through database and hand searches. Published English articles on randomized controlled trials or standardized qualitative or quantitative observational studies were included. FCs were those in close familial proximity to the patient (i.e., spouse, parents, children, relatives, other family members, significant others). Results Seventy-one publications were identified (AML, n = 3; HM, n = 29; HSCT, n = 39). Predominant burden categories included humanistic (n = 33), economic (n = 17), and interventions (n = 22); one study was classified as humanistic and economic. FCs lack sufficient resources to manage stressors and experience negative psychological, behavioral, and physiological effects. FCs of patients with HMs reported post-traumatic stress disorder, significant sleep problems, moderate-to-poor HRQoL, and negative impacts on family relationships. Instruments designed to measure caregiver burden were generic and symptom-specific. Educational, expressional, and self-adjustment interventions were used to improve FC burden. Conclusion Findings indicate a need for additional research, public health approaches to support FCs, and effective interventions to address FC burden. Minimizing FC burden and improving quality of life may reduce the overall healthcare service use and allow FCs to more effectively fulfill caregiver tasks. Support systems to alleviate caregiver burden may create reinforced integrators, thus positively affecting quality of life and possibly the outcomes of patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12325-021-01872-x.
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Silva JSD, Moraes OF, Sabin LD, Almeida FO, Magnago TSBDS. Resilience of family caregivers of children and adolescents in treatment of neoplasms and associated factors. Rev Bras Enferm 2021; 74:e20190388. [PMID: 34431932 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2019-0388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES analyze the level of resilience of family caregivers of children and adolescents hospitalized for cancer treatment and associated factors. METHODS cross-sectional study, carried out in 2018, with 62 family caregivers in a university hospital in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The instruments CDRisc-10-Br, SRQ20, PSS-14 and WHOQOL-Bref were used to measure resilience, minor psychological disorders, stress, and quality of life, respectively. Inferential statistics were used. RESULTS female caregivers, married, with one child and who practice some predominated religion. They were classified as having a moderate level of resilience (48.4%); with suspicion for minor psychological disorders (45%) and high level of stress (41%). In terms of quality of life, they were satisfied in the Physical, Psychological and Social Relations domains; and dissatisfied in the Environment domain. CONCLUSIONS there were direct weak to moderate correlations between the level of resilience and quality of life and inversely with stress and minor psychological disorders.
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22
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Caregiver burden and related factors in caregivers of patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:5025-5032. [PMID: 34341849 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05867-5] [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] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Having a child with a chronic illness is a source of stress for the whole family, especially the primary caregiver. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between caregiver burden and both the caregiver's and child's psychological symptoms in a cohort of children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS Thirty-four patients (aged 9-18 years) with childhood-onset SLE and their caregivers participated in this study. The control group was composed of healthy children and their caregivers. Questionnaires were used to evaluate caregiver burden and the psychological status of parents and children and adolescents with and without SLE. RESULTS No significant difference was found between the study and control groups for caregiver burden, anxiety and depression in parents, and psychological status in children. Caregiver burden was positively correlated with parent's depression, anxiety, and behavioral and peer problems of the children, and it was negatively correlated with the children's prosocial behaviors. According to regression analyses, the parents' depression and children's peer relationship had a positive effect on caregiver burden scores. CONCLUSION Physicians should be aware of the presence of psychological symptoms in patients with childhood-onset SLE and their caregivers because it can affect caregiver burden and the caregiver's psychological state. Key points •Caregiver burden was positively correlated with parent's depression and anxiety. •Caregiver burden was positively correlated with children's behavioral and peer problems. •Caregiver burden was negatively correlated with child's prosocial behaviors.
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Factors associated with caregiver burden for mothers of children undergoing Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) treatment. Palliat Support Care 2021; 18:405-412. [PMID: 31727187 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951519000853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study examined the extent to which social support (SS) availability and satisfaction could predict the extent of caregiver burden (CB) among mothers of children with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). METHOD The study was a cross-sectional, descriptive-correlative study. It was conducted on a sample of 117 mothers whose children were undergoing treatment in a public hospital in Bam, Iran. The Norbeck Social Support Scale and the Caregiver Burden Scale were used to measuring study variables. The data were analyzed using Pearson's correlations, t-tests, ANOVAs, and linear regressions. RESULTS Significant correlations were observed between CB and SS availability (r = -0.499, p < 0.001), SS satisfaction (r = -0.543, p < 0.001), the age of the child with cancer (r = -0.22, p = 0.01), and duration of treatment (r = 0.336, p < 0.001). Married mothers experienced less CB than those that were widowed or divorced. Within the regression equation, SS satisfaction, SS availability, marital status, and duration of treatment were the predictors of CB. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Based on the results of the current study, mothers who have less SS, especially those who are single mothers, with younger children, and who have taken care of their child for an extended duration should be given special attention. Furthermore, it appears that there are distinct cultural variations amongst Iranian mothers which suggest that culture may impact upon SS availability. Results also suggest a need for interventions that enhance nurses' ability to provide support to caregivers and the broader family unit as a whole. Nurses in cancer care need to have psychological competencies to help family members of cancer patients especially mothers and more so those that are single mothers. As integral members of the patient care experience, nurses may be uniquely positioned to provide this needed psychosocial support.
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Development of a Structured Peer Mentoring Program for Support of Parents and Caregivers of Children with Cancer. J Pediatr Nurs 2021; 59:131-136. [PMID: 33878538 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2021.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer have increased anxiety, depression, and numerous questions. Many of these concerns can only be answered by parents who have undergone a similar experience. LOCAL PROBLEM Our institution lacked a formal parent-to-parent mentoring program for parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer. METHODS The Parent Family Advisory Council (PFAC) recommended implementation of a formalized program that would promote a structured approach to mentoring, with a formal referral process and designated parent mentors who had been vetted, trained, and supported by the institution. INTERVENTION In 2010, a pilot parent-to-parent mentoring program was initiated. RESULTS Since the programs initiation, 4062 encounters have been documented. This represents an annual average of 72 mentees paired with 20 mentors, averaging 677 annual encounters. Parents view the mentoring relationship as positive and report that they feel understood, less anxious, and less isolated. CONCLUSION We show that a parent-to-parent mentoring program is feasible and sustainable over time. Our model is now transitioning from a staff referral to self-referral, as well as incorporating real-time mentoring into the new commons area for patients and their families. A formal volunteer mentoring program can assist parents in navigating the trajectory of childhood cancer, decreasing isolation.
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Harrison R, Raman M, Walpola RL, Chauhan A, Sansom-Daly UM. Preparing for partnerships in cancer care: an explorative analysis of the role of family-based caregivers. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:620. [PMID: 34187469 PMCID: PMC8240189 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06611-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family-based 'informal' caregivers are critical to enable sustainable cancer care that produces optimal health outcomes but also gives rise to psychological burdens on caregivers. Evidence of psychosocial support for caregivers does not currently address the impacts of their role in providing clinical and health-related care for their loved ones. The present study sought to address this gap including with those from priority populations. METHODS Qualitative data was collected using focus group and interview methods. We purposively sampled caregivers identified as having a high burden of responsibility for providing clinical care including those from ethnic minority backgrounds, parental caregivers and those living rurally. Transcripts were subject to thematic analysis utilising a team-based approach. RESULTS Family-based caregivers included spouses (11), parents (7), children (1), siblings (1). Ten participants were from ethnic minority backgrounds and five participants were from regional or rural locations. Four resulting inter-related themes were; 1) Dual burden of providing clinical care and managing personal emotional distress; 2) Navigating healthcare partnership dynamics; 3) Developing a caregiving skillset, and 4) Unique supportive needs and barriers to access. These data provide evidence of the unique challenge of providing clinical care as part of family-based caregiving for a loved one with cancer, and the absence of support for caregivers to take up this role. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the substantial contribution of family-based caregivers to the provision of cancer care in contemporary health systems. Inadequate support for caregivers is apparent with regard to their role in providing clinical aspects of care such as medication administration and management. Support programs to prepare caregivers to provide clinical care while building capacity to manage their stressors and emotions through this challenging period may be valuable towards sustainable, person-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reema Harrison
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Madhav Raman
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ramesh Lahiru Walpola
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ashfaq Chauhan
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
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Atout M, Tarawneh FS, Al-Kharabsheh A. Challenges Faced by Mothers Caring for Children with Leukaemia During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study. J Pediatr Nurs 2021; 58:e74-e80. [PMID: 33526289 PMCID: PMC8815105 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the experiences of parents who care for children diagnosed with leukaemia. This paper is focused solely on reporting the interview findings from participating mothers regarding the challenges of caring for children with leukaemia in the context of the COVID-19. DESIGN AND METHODS The study took place in a Jordanian hospital where a descriptive qualitative design approach was applied on one oncology floor and an oncology clinic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with mothers of children aged 1-12 with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Inductive thematic analysis approach was undertaken. Written consent was obtained from all participants. RESULTS Fifteen interviews were conducted with fifteen mothers. Four major themes reflect the different challenges parents and children face during the COVID-19 pandemic: children refusing to wear masks, social isolation, family relationship and financial concerns. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study present important data for health care professionals to help them understand the challenges faced by parents and children with leukaemia, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS This study suggests activating emotional support teams in hospitals. These teams can actively help mothers express their concerns and worries which might otherwise foster self-blame, guilt and isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Atout
- School of Nursing, Philadelphia University, Jordan.
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Dolgin MJ, Devine KA, Tzur-Bitan D, Askins MA, Fairclough DL, Katz ER, Noll RB, Phipps S, Sahler OJZ. Responsivity to Problem-Solving Skills Training in Mothers of Children With Cancer. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 46:413-421. [PMID: 33367833 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsaa117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bright IDEAS (BI) is a problem-solving skills training (PSST) program that has been demonstrated in earlier randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to be an effective and specific intervention for improving problem-solving skills and reducing negative affect in caregivers of children with cancer. The objectives of this study were to (a) offer an approach to defining meaningful treatment response and to determine the rates of responsivity to PSST; and (b) identify characteristics of PSST responders and nonresponders. METHODS Data from 154 mothers receiving the BI intervention were analyzed. Drawing on the literature on minimal clinically important differences, two criteria for determining responsivity were calculated for the primary outcome of problem-solving skills: (a) The reliable change index (RCI) based on group data, and; (b) The effect size (ES) of each participant's pre/postintervention change score as a function of the group's baseline SD. RESULTS Thirty-three percent of the sample met both responsivity criteria immediately posttreatment (39% at follow-up) and 38% (39% at follow-up) met neither. An additional 29% demonstrated a small or greater ES (≥ 0.2) but did not meet the RCI criteria, suggesting possible benefit. The single consistent predictor of responsivity was participants' pretreatment problem-solving skills, with lower skills at baseline predicting greater improvement (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the need to go beyond group data in interpreting RCTs and to incorporate measures of meaningful treatment response. Our ability to predict and screen for meaningful treatment response is critical to more precise targeting, enhanced outcomes, and better resource allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katie A Devine
- Cancer Control and Prevention Program, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey
| | | | | | - Diane L Fairclough
- Department of Biometrics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health
| | - Ernest R Katz
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles
| | - Robert B Noll
- Department of Child Development, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Behavioral Medicine, St. Jude children's Research Hospital
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Yu W, Chen J, Sun S, Liu P, Ouyang L, Hu J. The reciprocal associations between caregiver burden, and mental health in primary caregivers of cancer patients: A longitudinal study: Family functioning, caregiver burden, and mental health Wenjun Yu et al. Psychooncology 2021; 30:892-900. [PMID: 33686757 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The vital role played by primary caregivers in caring for cancer patients is well-recognized, but the caregiver burden and impact on family functioning to caregivers' mental health is poorly understood. This study examined the prospective and reciprocal relationships between family functioning, caregiver burden, and mental health. We aimed to determine whether inferior family functioning and heavy caregiver burden act as risk factors for mental health, as consequences of mental health, or both. METHODS Participants were 187 primary caregivers of cancer patients. They completed questionnaires with standardized measures assessing family functioning, caregiver burden, and mental health. A quantitative longitudinal design and a cross-lag model were used to test the reciprocal relationships between variables at three time points with 6-month intervals during the first year of early-stage cancer diagnosis and treatment. RESULTS Family functioning did not predict participants' future mental health, but their mental health state predicted future caregiver burden and family functioning. Caregiver burden also predicted participants' future mental health. There was a dynamic reciprocal relationship between caregiver burden and mental health over time. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study emphasize the adverse effects of caregiver burden and may contribute to shedding light on the distinct mechanisms that underlie the relationships between caregiver burden, family functioning, and mental health. Our findings indicate the necessity of developing interventions to reduce the burden of caregiving and to facilitate family functioning. They will provide direction for family-centered nursing to meet primary caregivers' mental health needs in the care of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Yu
- College of Education, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
| | - Jia Chen
- College of Education, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
| | - Shiyan Sun
- College of Education, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
| | - Peiwen Liu
- Affiliated Hospital, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
| | - Longqiang Ouyang
- First Affiliated Hospital, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| | - Jize Hu
- School of Psychology, ShenZhen University, Shenzhen, China
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29
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The experiences of mothers who have a child diagnosed with cancer. Psychol Health 2021; 37:597-614. [PMID: 33449823 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2021.1872791] [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: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This qualitative study explored the experiences of mothers who had a child diagnosed with cancer.Design and Outcome Measure: Informed by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, semi-structured interviews were completed with 13 participants, transcribed verbatim with individual and cross-case analysis conducted.Results: One superordinate theme, Protecting My Child, Whatever the Cost, was identified with five related subordinate themes. Participants battled to protect the development of their ill child. They richly described the personal costs and losses experienced, including putting their life on hold, and lost time with their healthy children. Participants faced realities of cancer treatment that were incongruent with their goal of protecting their child. Self-care awareness was significant for well-being as they protected themselves from reminders of their child's mortality. Despite living in a crisis, participants reported changes suggestive of posttraumatic growth.Conclusion: Childhood cancer brings profound psychosocial and biographical disruption to the lives of mothers as they lose socially valued roles and have their identity as competent mothers challenged. Mothers protect their child, often at a cost to their health and well-being but also bringing positive consequences. The findings offer insights for psychologists in supporting mothers to reclaim their identity as competent mothers and renegotiate their mothering expectations.
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30
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Toledano-Toledano F, Luna D. The psychosocial profile of family caregivers of children with chronic diseases: a cross-sectional study. Biopsychosoc Med 2020; 14:29. [PMID: 33110443 PMCID: PMC7583305 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-020-00201-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A family caregiver is defined as a person who has a significant emotional bond with the patient; this caregiver is a family member who is a part of the patient’s family life cycle; offers emotional-expressive, instrumental, and tangible support; and provides assistance and comprehensive care during the chronic illness, acute illness, or disability of a child, adult, or elderly person. The objectives of this study were to identify the psychosocial profiles of family caregivers of children with chronic diseases and to establish the relationship between these profiles and sociodemographic variables. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 401 family caregivers of children with chronic diseases at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. The participants responded to the Sociodemographic Variables Questionnaire (Q-SV) for research on family caregivers of children with chronic disease and a battery of 7 instruments that examined anxiety, caregiver burden, family support, depression, resilience, parental stress, and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. Results A hierarchical cluster analysis and its confirmation through a nonhierarchical cluster analysis confirmed two profiles of caregivers of pediatric patients with chronic diseases. Profile 1, called Vulnerability of family caregivers, is characterized by high levels of anxiety, depression, parental stress and caregiver burden, accompanied by low levels of family support, resilience, and well-being. Profile 2, called Adversity of family caregivers, shows an inverse pattern, with high levels of family support, resilience, and well-being and low levels of anxiety, depression, parental stress and caregiver burden. The sociodemographic characteristics are similar for both profiles, with the exception of the caregiver’s family type. Profile 1 shows more single-parent caregivers, while profile 2 includes more caregivers with a nuclear family. However, the type of family did not reach significance for predicting the caregiver’s profile in a bivariate logistic regression model. Conclusions The psychosocial profile of family caregivers of children with chronic diseases can be structured according to their psychosocial characteristics. Although no causal factors were detected that define criteria for belonging to one or another profile, the characteristics identified for each indicate the need for specific and differentiated intervention strategies for families facing adversity, risk and vulnerability during a child’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiberto Toledano-Toledano
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Unit, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, National Institute of Health, Dr. Márquez 162, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06720 México City, Mexico
| | - David Luna
- Comisión Nacional de Arbitraje Médico, Mitla No. 250-8° Piso, esq. Eje 5 Sur (Eugenia). Vertiz Narvarte, 03020, Benito Juárez, Mexico City, Mexico
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31
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Lee JL, Gutierrez-Colina A, Meacham LR, Mertens AC, Gilleland Marchak J. Evidence for increased surveillance of executive functioning in adolescent and young adult survivors of childhood cancer. Transl Behav Med 2020; 9:777-784. [PMID: 30395335 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/iby100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive long-term follow-up (LTFU) for survivors of childhood cancer is critical for reducing morbidity and mortality. Current standards recommend screening all survivors for psychological and academic problems and certain survivors for neurocognitive problems based upon treatment exposures. This study aimed to determine if differences exist in executive functioning (EF) based on treatment exposures and characterize relationships between EF, treatment exposure, and internalizing problems. Participants included adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors (N = 70) of non-central nervous system cancer, aged 14-21 presenting for LTFU. Patient-reported data were obtained on survivors' EF, internalizing symptoms, academic performance, and educational supports. Children's Oncology Group's LTFU Guidelines classified survivors as at risk or not at risk for neurocognitive deficits based on treatment exposures. Group differences, relationships, and moderation by risk group were examined. No differences were found in EF, internalizing symptoms, academic performance, or educational supports between survivors who were at risk versus those not at risk for neurocognitive deficits. Problems with EF predicted internalizing symptoms, an effect that was moderated by risk group (R2= .64 for AYA self-report; R2 = .38 for parent-proxy report). Survivors with poorer EF experienced higher levels of internalizing symptoms. These data indicate that current screening practices may not identify survivors who are not at risk for neurocognitive deficits, yet struggle with EF. Survivor care providers should consider universal screening for EF problems in AYAs, regardless of treatment exposure history. Clinical assessment of internalizing problems in survivors with EF problems is also recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Lee
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Lillian R Meacham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ann C Mertens
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jordan Gilleland Marchak
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Phipps S, Fairclough DL, Noll RB, Devine KA, Dolgin MJ, Schepers SA, Askins MA, Schneider NM, Ingman K, Voll M, Katz ER, McLaughlin J, Sahler OJZ. In-person vs. web-based administration of a problem-solving skills intervention for parents of children with cancer: Report of a randomized noninferiority trial. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 24:100428. [PMID: 32637901 PMCID: PMC7327899 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bright IDEAS (BI) problem-solving skills training is an evidence-based intervention designed to help parents manage the demands of caring for a child with cancer. However, the resource intensiveness of this in-person intervention has limited its widespread delivery. We conducted a multicenter, randomized trial with a noninferiority design to evaluate whether a web-based version of BI requiring fewer resources is noninferior to in-person administration. METHODS 621 caregivers of children with newly diagnosed cancer were randomly assigned to standard BI delivered face-to-face or a web-based version delivered via mobile device. The primary outcome was caregiver-reported problem-solving skills. The noninferiority margin was defined as 0.2 standard deviation units of the change from baseline to end of intervention. Secondary outcomes included caregiver-reported mood disturbance, depression, and posttraumatic stress symptoms. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01711944. FINDINGS The effect of the standard treatment was preserved; parents in the standard BI arm improved their problem-solving (effect size = 0.53, t = 8.88, p < .001). Parents in the web-based BI group also improved their problem-solving (effect size = 0.32, t = 5.32, p < .001). Although the web-based intervention preserved 60% of the standard treatment effect, the test of noninferiority was non-significant (effect size = -0.21, p = 0.55). Similarly, the web-based intervention preserved > 60% of the standard intervention effect on all secondary outcomes; however, tests of noninferiority were non-significant. INTERPRETATION Noninferiority of web-based BI relative to standard face-to-face administration was not established. Further development of the web-based BI is needed before it can be recommended as a stand-alone intervention. However, the documented benefits of the web-based intervention as well as the advantages of low resource utilization and ease of delivery suggest that further development of web-based BI is indicated, and that it may play a valuable role in alleviating distress in caregivers of children with serious or chronic illness. FUNDING National Institutes of Health (U.S.), R01 CA159013 (P.I. Sahler).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105-3678, United States
- Corresponding author.
| | | | - Robert B. Noll
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Katie A. Devine
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | | | - Sasja A. Schepers
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105-3678, United States
| | | | - Nicole M. Schneider
- Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Kathleen Ingman
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Megan Voll
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ernest R. Katz
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Shain LM, Pao M, Tipton MV, Bedoya SZ, Kang SJ, Horowitz LM, Wiener L. Comparing Parent and Child Self-report Measures of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory in Children and Adolescents with a Chronic Health Condition. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2020; 27:173-181. [PMID: 31127422 PMCID: PMC6874919 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-019-09631-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with a chronic health condition have been estimated as high as 40% lifetime prevalence. Clinicians often rely on parent/caregiver information to supplement or substitute child self-report related to pediatric physical and mental health. We developed a caregiver proxy version (STAI-P) for the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) State Anxiety Scale that was compared with a child self-report version in 201 parent-child dyads to evaluate its utility in measuring state anxiety in chronically ill youth. For patients aged 7-12, self-reports of state anxiety were moderately associated with parent distress and health provider-reported functional status, but negatively associated with parent STAI-P scores. For patients aged 13-17, self-reports of state anxiety were significantly associated with STAI-P scores, parent distress, and health provider-reported functional status. The STAI-P parent version may be a useful tool in identifying and addressing anxiety symptoms in youth living with a chronic health condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey M Shain
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Maryland Pao
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mary V Tipton
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sima Zadeh Bedoya
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Sun J Kang
- Genetic Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lisa M Horowitz
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lori Wiener
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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Tsitsi T, Raftopoulos V, Papastavrou E, Charalambous A. Progressive Muscle Relaxation and guided imagery as techniques to enhance the way of coping of parents of children with malignancies: Findings from a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2020; 46:101718. [PMID: 32361196 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2019.101718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of relaxation techniques in altering the coping strategies that were employed by the parents of children with malignancy on active treatment. METHODS It was a randomized non-blinded controlled trial, including pre - and post assessments, comparing a 3-week relaxation intervention with the standard psychological care. Participants were recruited consecutively from two Public Pediatric Oncology - Hematology Departments in Cyprus and Greece. Fifty four parents of children hospitalized with a malignancy, were randomly assigned either to the intervention group (n = 29), receiving the Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) and Guided Imagery (GI) Relaxation Techniques or to the control group (n = 25) receiving only the Standard Psychological Care by nurses and psychologists. Data were collected with the Questionnaire of 'Ways of Coping Checklist' (WofCC). RESULTS The results showed that the intervention did not have an impact on the coping strategies that parents employed as these are reflected on the WofCC' factors. The results showed that parents in both intervention and control group prefer using positive ways of coping in stressful situations: positive approach, positive re-evaluation and prayer/daydreaming. CONCLUSIONS The findings did not support the utilization of PMR and GI as coping strategies altering interventions in this clinical context. However, these findings should be interpreted in light of the short duration of the intervention that under these specific circumstances might have required a more lengthy approach for coping strategies to be altered. Furthermore, the stress relieving properties of these interventions could fortify (although not altering) existing coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theologia Tsitsi
- Cyprus University of Technology, Nursing Department, Limassol, Cyprus.
| | - Vasilios Raftopoulos
- Cyprus University of Technology, Nursing Department, Mediterranean Research Centre for Public Health and Quality of Care, Limassol, Cyprus.
| | | | - Andreas Charalambous
- Cyprus University of Technology, Nursing Department, Research Centre for Oncology and Palliative Care, Limassol, Cyprus.
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Segrin C, Badger T, Sikorskii A. Psychological Distress and Social Support Availability in Different Family Caregivers of Latinas With Breast Cancer. J Transcult Nurs 2019; 32:103-110. [DOI: 10.1177/1043659619896824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Latinas with breast cancer draw on a diverse range of family members for informal care. Latin cultures typically prescribe high levels of support and care for an ill family member that leave caregivers vulnerable to compromised well-being. Method: In this cross-sectional survey study, 258 family caregivers of Latinas with breast cancer completed reports of psychological distress, availability of social support, and acculturation. Results: Mothers who provide care to a daughter with breast cancer experience higher levels of psychological distress and report lower availability of informational support than most other types of family caregivers. Mothers’ lower levels of acculturation may at least partially explain these reductions in well-being. Discussion: This study highlights the diverse range of family and fictive kin who participate in family caregiving for Latina breast cancer survivors. Spousal caregivers may not represent a unique population, whereas mothers as caregivers are indeed distinct for their higher distress levels.
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Dionne-Odom JN, Currie ER, Johnston EE, Rosenberg AR. Supporting Family Caregivers of Adult and Pediatric Persons with Leukemia. Semin Oncol Nurs 2019; 35:150954. [DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2019.150954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Rensen N, Steur LM, Schepers SA, Merks JH, Moll AC, Kaspers GJ, Grootenhuis MA, van Litsenburg RR. Gender-specific differences in parental health-related quality of life in childhood cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27728. [PMID: 30916456 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with cancer are at risk for impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Most prior research has focused on the HRQoL of mothers. The aim of this study is to describe HRQoL in mothers and fathers, and determine the influence of sociodemographic, medical, and psychosocial factors. PROCEDURE In a cross-sectional study, both parents completed questionnaires on sociodemographics, distress, and HRQoL. Parental HRQoL was compared to healthy population values. Differences between mothers and fathers were evaluated with multilevel analysis. Gender-specific HRQoL determinants were assessed via multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS Parents (202 mothers, 150 fathers; comprising 121 couples) of 231 children with different cancer diagnoses (mean time since diagnosis 3.3 ± 1.4 years, 90% posttreatment) participated. Compared to healthy women and men, mothers and fathers reported significantly impaired HRQoL on the following domains: cognitive functioning, sleep, daily activities, and vitality (Cohen's d = 0.3-0.9). Additionally, maternal HRQoL was reduced on the domains gross motor functioning, pain, social functioning, sexuality, and depressive emotions. Mothers scored worse than fathers on six of 12 domains. Risk factors for adverse outcomes in both parents were higher distress, emotional and parenting problems, little social support, medication use, and active treatment of the child. Other determinants in mothers were non-Dutch background and unemployment, while lower HRQoL in fathers was predicted by their child's diagnosis type, shorter time since diagnosis, and treatment intensity. CONCLUSION These outcomes illustrate the need for family-centered care. Future interventions aimed at improving parental functioning should take into account gender-specific differences in HRQoL to reach optimal efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki Rensen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lindsay M Steur
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sasja A Schepers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Psychosocial Department, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes H Merks
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annette C Moll
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gertjan J Kaspers
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martha A Grootenhuis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Psychosocial Department, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Raphaële R van Litsenburg
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Emma Children's Hospital, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Roser K, Erdmann F, Michel G, Winther JF, Mader L. The impact of childhood cancer on parents' socio‐economic situation—A systematic review. Psychooncology 2019; 28:1207-1226. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.5088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Roser
- Department of Health Sciences and Health PolicyUniversity of Lucerne Lucerne Switzerland
| | - Friederike Erdmann
- Childhood Cancer Research GroupDanish Cancer Society Research Center Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Gisela Michel
- Department of Health Sciences and Health PolicyUniversity of Lucerne Lucerne Switzerland
| | - Jeanette Falck Winther
- Childhood Cancer Research GroupDanish Cancer Society Research Center Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of HealthAarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Luzius Mader
- Childhood Cancer Research GroupDanish Cancer Society Research Center Copenhagen Denmark
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Erdmann F, Feychting M, Mogensen H, Schmiegelow K, Zeeb H. Social Inequalities Along the Childhood Cancer Continuum: An Overview of Evidence and a Conceptual Framework to Identify Underlying Mechanisms and Pathways. Front Public Health 2019; 7:84. [PMID: 31106186 PMCID: PMC6492628 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inequalities in health according to social conditions are regarded as unnecessary and unjust. There is a large body of evidence on inequalities in adult cancer, observable throughout the societies on a national level as well as on a global scale. Socioeconomic influences on health matter at all ages including childhood, for which childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease related death in high-income countries (HICs). Substantial differences in the reported incidence of childhood cancers have been observed globally by socioeconomic development of a population. This is reflected in the higher incidence rates reported for HICs, particularly for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and for cancer in infants (below 1 year), compared to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Considerable inequalities between populations and degree of socioeconomic development are also noted for survival from childhood cancer, with substantially lower survival rates seen in most LMICs compared to HICs. With respect to inequalities by socioeconomic position (SEP) within countries, findings of an association between SEP and childhood cancer risk are diverse and limited to studies from HICs. On the contrary, observations on social inequalities in survival within countries are accumulating and indicate that survival inequalities do not only concern resource-poor countries but also high-income populations including European countries. In turn, a childhood cancer diagnosis in itself may have implications on the parents' socioeconomic situation as well as on the later socioeconomic life after having survived the disease. The underlying mechanisms and causal pathways of these empirically demonstrated social inequalities are poorly understood, although it is of significant public health relevance for any actions or strategies to reduce childhood cancer-related inequity. We propose a conceptual framework on potential underlying mechanism and pathways specifically addressing social inequalities in childhood cancer and after childhood cancer to (i) illustrate potential pathways by which social determinants may create health inequities at different points of the childhood cancer continuum; (ii) illustrate potential pathways by which a childhood cancer diagnosis may impact the socioeconomic situation of the concerned family or the later life of a childhood survivor; and (iii) point out how major determinants may relate to each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Erdmann
- Section of Environment and Radiation, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz - Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS GmbH, Bremen, Germany
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Feychting
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Mogensen
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kjeld Schmiegelow
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hajo Zeeb
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz - Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS GmbH, Bremen, Germany
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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40
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Jarvis JM, Choong K, Khetani MA. Associations of Participation-Focused Strategies and Rehabilitation Service Use With Caregiver Stress After Pediatric Critical Illness. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 100:703-710. [PMID: 30578773 PMCID: PMC6435394 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) Determine the associations between having participation-focused strategies and receiving rehabilitation services in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with caregiver stress over 6 months post-PICU discharge. DESIGN Substudy of a data from Wee-Cover, a prospective cohort study. SETTING Two PICU sites. PARTICIPANTS Caregivers (N=168) of children 1-17 years old admitted into a PICU for ≥48 hours. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Data were collected from caregivers at enrollment and 3 and 6 months post-PICU discharge. Caregiver stress was assessed using the Pediatric Inventory for Parents. Having strategies to support their child's participation in home-based activities was assessed using the Participation and Environment Measure (PEM). In PEM, caregivers report on strategies used to support their child's participation in home-based activities. Data were dichotomized (yes, no) to denote having participation-focused strategies and if their child received PICU rehabilitation services. Additional covariates were history of a preexisting condition, child age, length of PICU stay, and change in functional capacities at PICU discharge. RESULTS History of a preexisting condition, time, and change in functional capacities significantly predicted caregiver stress frequency and difficulty. The interaction of having strategies-by-rehabilitation-by-time significantly predicted caregiver stress frequency and difficulty. CONCLUSION(S) Results highlight the role of early rehabilitation and the importance of working with caregivers to develop participation-focused strategies to support their child's functioning post-PICU. Families of children with a preexisting condition or those who experience a decrease in function during a PICU stay are susceptible to higher levels of stress and may be a priority population to target for rehabilitation services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Jarvis
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Karen Choong
- Department of Pediatrics, Critical Care, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON
| | - Mary A Khetani
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL.
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41
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Psychological treatment for family members of children with cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Psychooncology 2019; 28:960-969. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.5052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Toledano-Toledano F, Domínguez-Guedea MT. Psychosocial factors related with caregiver burden among families of children with chronic conditions. Biopsychosoc Med 2019; 13:6. [PMID: 30899323 PMCID: PMC6407238 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-019-0147-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of looking after children who live with complex chronic conditions is a growing public health issue. However, it is unclear whether sociodemographic and psychosocial variables can be used to predict the burden on the caregiver and how the profiles of families of children with chronic diseases are defined and structured. The objective of this study was to identify multivariate sociodemographic and psychosocial variables as well as sociocultural and familial factors to analyze the caregiver burden of family caregivers of children with chronic diseases. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 416 family caregivers of children with chronic diseases at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. The participants responded to a questionnaire on sociodemographic variables and a battery of 7 instruments that examined caregiver burden, family support, parental stress, anxiety, support networks, family functioning, historic-psycho-socio-cultural premises and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. RESULTS A multivariate analysis using hierarchical multiple regression models showed that the variables included in the psychosocial and sociodemographic profile as a whole explained 40% of the variance in caregiver burden, taking sociocultural historical premises, stressors and anxiety into account as positive individual predictors. Negative individual predictors for caregiver burden included upper secondary education, social support networks, family support, family functioning and well-being. The sociodemographic profiles of family caregivers were as follows: female (81.7%); mean age, 31.7 years (standard deviation [SD], 8 years); married (79.3%); nuclear family (60%); basic education (62.7%); unpaid work (66.3%); and a daily household income of approximately 4 USD (61.1%). CONCLUSIONS The caregiver burden of family caregivers of children with chronic diseases is defined and structured based on personal, family, and sociocultural factors. These features provide evidence to conduct research and implement intervention strategies with regard to families facing adversity, risk and vulnerability during a child's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiberto Toledano-Toledano
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Unit, Children’s Hospital of Mexico Federico Gómez, National Institute of Health, Mexico. Dr. Márquez 162, Col. Doctores, Del. Cuauhtémoc, C.P. 06720 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miriam Teresa Domínguez-Guedea
- Department of Psychology and Communication Sciences, University of Sonora. Blvd. Luis Encinas y Rosales, Col. Centro S/N, 83000 Hermosillo, Sonora Mexico
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43
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Cremers CH, Fischer MJ, Kruitwagen-van Reenen ET, Wadman RI, Vervoordeldonk JJ, Verhoef M, Visser-Meily JM, van der Pol WL, Schröder CD. Participation and mental well-being of mothers of home-living patients with spinal muscular atrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2019; 29:321-329. [PMID: 30954388 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Proximal spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) causes severe physical limitations but also has a major impact on the lives of parents. The aim of this study was to investigate participation and mental well-being (burden, emotional distress and satisfaction with participation) of parents of home-living patients with SMA. Caregiver burden was assessed with the Caregiver Strain Index, emotional distress with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and satisfaction with participation with the Utrecht Scale for Evaluation of Rehabilitation-Participation. Because the majority of parents were mothers of home-living SMA patients (76%), further analyses were restricted to mothers. Seventy-seven percent of mothers of patients with SMA had paid work. A substantial proportion of mothers (76%) perceived high caregiver burden. Burden, emotional distress and satisfaction with participation were comparable between mothers of children and mothers of adults with SMA. Caregivers' participation in leisure activities was significantly related to their perceived level of caregiver burden, emotional distress and satisfaction with participation. Mothers engaging in more social and leisure activities reported lower emotional distress and caregiver burden. Considering the high level of burden attention should be paid to mental well-being of primary caregivers of patients with SMA. Caregivers should be motivated to keep participating in social/leisure activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Cremers
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M J Fischer
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E T Kruitwagen-van Reenen
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - R I Wadman
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J J Vervoordeldonk
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M Verhoef
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J M Visser-Meily
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - W L van der Pol
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C D Schröder
- Center of Excellence for Rehabilitation Medicine, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, and De Hoogstraat Rehabilitation, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Science and Sports, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Van Humbeeck L, Dillen L, Piers R, Grypdonck M, Verhaeghe S, Van Den Noortgate N. Cancer patients' experiences of communicating and dealing with their older parents: A qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2019; 38:98-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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45
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Mader L, Roser K, Baenziger J, Vetsch J, Winther JF, Scheinemann K, Michel G. Relationship status and quality of the partner relationship in parents of long-term childhood cancer survivors: The Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study-Parents. Psychooncology 2018; 28:309-316. [PMID: 30421855 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The intensive and long-lasting experience of childhood cancer is a tremendous stressor for the parental relationship. We aimed to (1) compare civil status and partner relationship of parents of long-term childhood cancer survivors with population-based comparisons, (2) identify cancer-related characteristics associated with not being married, and (3) evaluate the quality of the partner relationship. METHODS We sent questionnaires to parents of survivors aged ≤16 years at diagnosis and ≥20 years at study. Population-based comparisons were derived from a random sample of the general population (≥1 child aged ≥20 years) and standardized by sociodemographic characteristics of survivor parents. We used logistic regression to identify cancer-related characteristics associated with not being married. The quality of the partner relationship was evaluated using the relationship-specific attachment scale for adults assessing the dimensions security (secure-fearful) and dependency (dependent-independent). RESULTS A total of 784 parents (58.9% mothers) of 512 survivors (response rate: 44.0%) and 471 comparison parents completed the questionnaire. Parents of survivors were less often divorced/separated (9.0% vs 17.5%, P < 0.001) and more often in a partner relationship (89.9% vs 85.0%, P = 0.010) than comparisons. Not being married was not associated with cancer-related characteristics. Parents of survivors reported similar security (P = 0.444) but higher dependency (P = 0.032) within the partner relationship than comparisons. In both populations, fathers indicated higher security and dependency than mothers. CONCLUSIONS Long after the diagnosis of cancer in their child, parents' relationship appears similar as in parents of the general population. The increased dependency reported by parents of survivors suggests that they managed their child's disease as a team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luzius Mader
- Department of Health Sciences and Health Policy, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland.,Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katharina Roser
- Department of Health Sciences and Health Policy, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Julia Baenziger
- Department of Health Sciences and Health Policy, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Janine Vetsch
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia.,Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Jeanette Falck Winther
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katrin Scheinemann
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Pediatrics, McMaster Children's Hospital & McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Gisela Michel
- Department of Health Sciences and Health Policy, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
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Boztepe H, Çınar S, Ay A, Kerimoğlu Yıldız G, Kılıç C. Predictors of caregiver burden in mothers of children with leukemia and cerebral palsy. J Psychosoc Oncol 2018; 37:69-78. [PMID: 30422097 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2018.1489441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Caring for a sick child can lead to considerable burden in the caregiver. Comparative studies of burden in mothers of children with different types of disorders are rare. METHODS We assessed levels of and risk factors for burden in mothers of children with leukemia (n: 70) or with cerebral palsy (CP) (n: 69). Subjects were recruited from two hospitals in Ankara. RESULTS Levels of burden or depression were not different between groups. Burden was predicted by the presence of depression in the mother and severity of illness in both groups. In the leukemia group, mothers reported higher burden if the child was male or younger; no such relationship was observed in the CP group. CONCLUSION Our results show that type of illness has an effect on levels of burden. Mothers of children with leukemia should receive more attention, especially if their child is male or younger, to take preventive measures against burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Handan Boztepe
- a Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Sevil Çınar
- a Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Ayşe Ay
- a Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Gizem Kerimoğlu Yıldız
- b Department of Pediatric Nursing, Florence Nightingale Nursing Faculty , Istanbul University , Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cengiz Kılıç
- c Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
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Schultz CL, Alderfer MA. Are on-line patient portals meeting test result preferences of caregivers of children with cancer? A qualitative exploration. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65:e27306. [PMID: 30007016 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management of pediatric cancer entails frequent laboratory and radiology testing to monitor response to treatment, side effects, and possible relapse of disease. Little is known about how caregivers of children with cancer would like to receive results of these tests and whether on-line patient portals may meet those preferences. PROCEDURES One-on-one semistructured interviews were conducted with 19 caregivers of children with cancer purposively sampled for breadth on demographic characteristics. Inductive qualitative content coding/analysis was utilized to distill caregiver's preferred methods for test result acquisition and their views of using an on-line patient portal to do so. RESULTS The relative prioritization of speed of information and mode of communication (i.e., "in person," by phone, etc.) revealed three preference styles. Factors including type of testing, type of result, and the time course within their child's care modified these preferences, and the desire to reduce anxiety played a central role. Caregivers recognized advantages of portal use including getting results "fast," being able to visualize trends in results, "keeping a record," and not interfering with clinic flow. Perceived disadvantages included the results being "complicated" or easily misunderstood, and learning results prior to disclosure by care team. CONCLUSION This study provides insight into the importance of understanding of how caregivers want test results and how they utilize the portal. Preferences for result acquisition vary on many factors and include the desire to decrease anxiety. As portal use increases, we have a duty to integrate this technology responsibly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna L Schultz
- Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Wilmington, Delaware.,Nemours/AI duPont Hospital for Children & Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Melissa A Alderfer
- Nemours/AI duPont Hospital for Children & Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Center for Healthcare Delivery Sciences, Wilmington, Delaware
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48
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Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of the perceived long-term effects of pediatric cancer on adult survivors and whether these effects had bearing on their primary support persons. DESIGN This work was guided by van Manen's "new" interpretive phenomenology. METHODS Ten survivors of pediatric cancer (aged 21-28 years) and 9 of their support persons (aged 23-73 years) were recruited. Background questionnaires were administered, and interviews were conducted. Field notes were collected, and member checks were administered for data credibility. RESULTS A total of 4 themes emerged from this work; however, only the theme discussing posttraumatic growth will be discussed. Posttraumatic growth manifested in different ways, such as motivation for career or schooling choices, doing charity work, working with cancer organizations, or mentoring children undergoing pediatric cancer treatment. CONCLUSIONS This work may provide comfort to other individuals with pediatric cancer knowing that they are not alone in their journeys. Healthcare providers should attempt to make pediatric cancer experiences as "normal" as possible for patients and their families and observe for signs of stress in their patients. As well, it is important for the pediatric cancer literature to illustrate that young adult survivors of pediatric cancer find positive outcomes in their experiences.
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50
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Cusinato M, Calvo V, Bisogno G, Viscardi E, Pillon M, Opocher E, Basso G, Montanaro M. Attachment orientations and psychological adjustment of parents of children with cancer: A matched-group comparison. J Psychosoc Oncol 2017; 35:726-740. [PMID: 28569621 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2017.1335365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of childhood cancer on parents' adult attachment, social support, marital adjustment, anxiety, and depression. METHODS 30 parents of children with childhood cancer and 30 matched controls completed the following questionnaires: Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised, Dyadic Adjustment Scale-4, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory - form Y, and Beck Depression Inventory. RESULTS Parents of children with childhood cancer had a significantly lower dyadic adjustment than controls, and higher levels of insecure-avoidant attachment, state anxiety, and depression. CONCLUSION It is important for health-care personnel to take into account these parents' propensity to show increased levels of avoidant attachment during children's treatment to foster effective communication and supportive relationships between clinicians, pediatric patients, and parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cusinato
- a Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology , University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calvo
- a Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology , University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Gianni Bisogno
- b Department of Child and Woman Health, Division of Hematology and Oncology , University-Hospital of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Elisabetta Viscardi
- b Department of Child and Woman Health, Division of Hematology and Oncology , University-Hospital of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Marta Pillon
- b Department of Child and Woman Health, Division of Hematology and Oncology , University-Hospital of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Enrico Opocher
- b Department of Child and Woman Health, Division of Hematology and Oncology , University-Hospital of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Basso
- b Department of Child and Woman Health, Division of Hematology and Oncology , University-Hospital of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Maria Montanaro
- b Department of Child and Woman Health, Division of Hematology and Oncology , University-Hospital of Padova , Padova , Italy
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