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High MS, Lynch E, Sobotka SA. Parent perspectives on education to support hospital discharge for children with invasive mechanical ventilation. J Pediatr Nurs 2024:S0882-5963(24)00264-1. [PMID: 39025713 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.07.002] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) often live at home, but for safety, parents must be prepared to assume primary responsibility for all aspects of their child's medically complex care. Prior studies have described discharge education programs, however often without perspectives of parents with lived experience transitioning home. PURPOSE To describe parent perspectives on hospital-based education for discharging home a child with IMV. DESIGN AND METHODS A secondary qualitative analysis of 23 parent interviews between February 2019 to January 2022 on topics related to caring for a child with IMV. Each interview was coded independently and discussed to consensus. Data from codes related to parent education and training were analyzed to identify themes and sub-themes. RESULTS Parents of 23 children with IMV participated in the primary interviews a month after hospital discharge. Four main themes in the secondary dataset were identified: (1) Training context: The hospital can be a stressful and difficult learning environment; (2) Training characteristics: Parents receive thorough training from interdisciplinary providers; (3) Learner characteristics: Parents are motivated learners who independently seek out knowledge; (4) Post-discharge education: Parents gain confidence in their expertise after navigating an emergency. CONCLUSIONS Parents who have transitioned from hospital-to-home describe sufficiently detailed hospital-based education; many felt trained as capably as nurses. However, parents experienced in-hospital training as inflexible and stressful. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Parents of children with IMV are eager learners but parent education is not always family-centered. Reforming the hospital learning environment to match parent needs will improve family experiences and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S High
- Department of Nursing, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; College of Nursing, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Emma Lynch
- Section of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah A Sobotka
- Section of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Koob C, Griffin SF, Stuenkel M, Cartmell K, Rennert L, Sease K. Bridging the gaps in pediatric complex healthcare: the case for home nursing care among children with medical complexity. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:814. [PMID: 39010079 PMCID: PMC11251302 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11235-1] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with medical complexity (CMC) comprise < 1% of the pediatric population, but account for nearly one-third of healthcare expenditures. Further, while CMC account for up to 80% of pediatric inpatient hospital costs, only 2% of Medicaid spending is attributed to home healthcare. As a result, the current health system heavily relies on family caregivers to fill existing care gaps. This study aimed to: (1) examine factors associated with hospital admissions among CMC and (2) contextualize the potential for home nursing care to improve outcomes among CMC and their families in South Carolina (SC). METHODS This mixed-methods study was conducted among CMC, their family caregivers, and physicians in SC. Electronic health records data from a primary care clinic within a large health system (7/1/2022-6/30/2023) was analyzed. Logistic regression examined factors associated with hospitalizations among CMC. In-depth interviews (N = 15) were conducted among physicians and caregivers of CMC statewide. Patient-level quantitative data is triangulated with conceptual findings from interviews. RESULTS Overall, 39.87% of CMC experienced ≥ 1 hospitalization in the past 12 months. CMC with higher hospitalization risk were dependent on respiratory or neurological/neuromuscular medical devices, not non-Hispanic White, and demonstrated higher healthcare utilization. Interview findings contextualized efforts to reduce hospitalizations, and suggested adaptations related to capacity and willingness to provide complex care for CMC and their families. CONCLUSIONS Findings may inform multi-level solutions for accessible, high-quality home nursing care among CMC and their families. Providers may learn from caregivers' insight to emphasize family-centered care practices, acknowledging time and financial constraints while optimizing the quality of medical care provided in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Koob
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, 501 Epsilon Zeta Dr. (Edwards Hall), Clemson, SC, 29634, USA.
| | - Sarah F Griffin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, 501 Epsilon Zeta Dr. (Edwards Hall), Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Cartmell
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, 501 Epsilon Zeta Dr. (Edwards Hall), Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Lior Rennert
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, 501 Epsilon Zeta Dr. (Edwards Hall), Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Kerry Sease
- Prisma Health (Bradshaw Institute for Community Child Health and Advocacy), 255 Enterprise Blvd #110, Greenville, SC, 29615, USA
- Furman University, Greenville, SC, 29613, USA
- Executive Director of the Institute for Advancement of Community Health, Greenville, SC, 29613, USA
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3
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Geyer D, Vessey JA. Caring for children with medical complexity at home: An integrative review. J Pediatr Nurs 2024; 76:167-175. [PMID: 38412708 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM Despite reporting significant systemic barriers to providing care, burden among parental caregivers of children with medical complexity (CMC) is often attributed to stressors related to disease management. The relationship between parental caregiver burden and systemic barriers within the healthcare bureaucracy, as defined by Ray's Theory of Bureaucratic Caring (BCT), has not been explored. The purpose of this integrative review was to examine which elements of the bureaucratic healthcare system are contributing to burden among parental caregivers of CMC living at home. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Refereed research articles related to the experiences of parental caregivers of CMC living in the United States published after 2014. SAMPLE 1967 articles were obtained on initial literature search. Using the PRISMA algorithm, ten articles published between 2018 and 2022 were ultimately selected for appraisal. RESULTS Parental caregiver burden was consistently attributed to barriers and gaps among social-cultural, physical, political, legal, economic, technological, and educational elements of the bureaucratic healthcare system. CONCLUSIONS Weaknesses across the bureaucratic elements of the healthcare system prevent CMC from consistently receiving necessary care which in turn, contribute to feelings of burden among their parental caregivers. Efforts to alleviate burden experienced by parental caregivers should focus on addressing gaps within the healthcare bureaucracy. IMPLICATIONS Nurses are well-positioned to address these gaps through clinical work, advocacy, and research. Future research should further examine the appropriateness of using BCT to better understand the implications of systems-level weaknesses on parental caregiver burden. Parental caregivers of CMC should be closely involved in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Geyer
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, MA, USA.
| | - Judith A Vessey
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, MA, USA; Medical, Surgical and Behavioral Health Programs, Boston Children's Hospital, MA, USA
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Scheer ER, Werner NE, Coller RJ, Nacht CL, Petty L, Tang M, Ehlenbach M, Kelly MM, Finesilver S, Warner G, Katz B, Keim-Malpass J, Lunsford CD, Letzkus L, Desai SS, Valdez RS. Designing for caregiving networks: a case study of primary caregivers of children with medical complexity. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2024; 31:1151-1162. [PMID: 38427845 PMCID: PMC11031225 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocae026] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to characterize the experiences of primary caregivers of children with medical complexity (CMC) in engaging with other members of the child's caregiving network, thereby informing the design of health information technology (IT) for the caregiving network. Caregiving networks include friends, family, community members, and other trusted individuals who provide resources, information, health, or childcare. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of two qualitative studies. Primary studies conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 50) with family caregivers of CMC. Interviews were held in the Midwest (n = 30) and the mid-Atlantic region (n = 20). Interviews were transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Emergent themes were mapped to implications for the design of future health IT. RESULTS Thematic analysis identified 8 themes characterizing a wide range of primary caregivers' experiences in constructing, managing, and ensuring high-quality care delivery across the caregiving network. DISCUSSION Findings evidence a critical need to create flexible and customizable tools designed to support hiring/training processes, coordinating daily care across the caregiving network, communicating changing needs and care updates across the caregiving network, and creating contingency plans for instances where caregivers are unavailable to provide care to the CMC. Informaticists should additionally design accessible platforms that allow primary caregivers to connect with and learn from other caregivers while minimizing exposure to sensitive or emotional content as indicated by the user. CONCLUSION This article contributes to the design of health IT for CMC caregiving networks by uncovering previously underrecognized needs and experiences of CMC primary caregivers and drawing direct connections to design implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanore Rae Scheer
- Department of Systems and Information Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Nicole E Werner
- Department of Health and Wellness Design, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Ryan J Coller
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - Carrie L Nacht
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, United States
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, United States
| | - Lauren Petty
- Department of Systems and Information Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Mengwei Tang
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Mary Ehlenbach
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - Michelle M Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - Sara Finesilver
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - Gemma Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, United States
| | - Barbara Katz
- Family Voices of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, United States
| | - Jessica Keim-Malpass
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
| | - Christopher D Lunsford
- Department of Orthopedics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC 27707, United States
| | - Lisa Letzkus
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
| | - Shaalini Sanjiv Desai
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
| | - Rupa S Valdez
- Department of Systems and Information Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
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Woodgate RL, Gonzalez M, Ripat JD, Edwards M, Rempel G. Exploring fathers' experiences of caring for a child with complex care needs through ethnography and arts-based methodologies. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:93. [PMID: 38308237 PMCID: PMC10835869 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04567-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the number of children living with complex care needs (CCN) is increasing worldwide, there is limited data on the experience of fathers caring for children with CCN. This paper reports on findings specific to fathers' experiences of caring for their child with CCN and highlights recommendations provided for parents of children with CCN, service providers, and policymakers. The findings emerged from a larger study designed to examine how Canadian families of children with CCN participate in society. METHODS We used the qualitative research approach of ethnography and arts-based methodologies (ecomaps and photovoice) as well as purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Four parents were engaged as advisors and twenty-nine fathers participated in interviews (all were married or in a relationship; age range of 28 to 55 years). In line with an ethnographic approach, data analysis involved several iterative steps including comparing data from the first, second, and third set of interviews and refining themes. RESULTS One overarching theme, striving to be there for the child with CCN, was identified. Five supporting themes further exemplified how fathers strived to be there for their child: 1) contributing to the parental team through various roles; 2) building accessibility through adaptation; 3) engaging in activities with the child; 4) expressing admiration and pride in their children; and 5) meaning making. Recommendations for parents included making and nurturing connections and asking for help while recommendations for healthcare and social service providers included communicating authentically with families and listening to parents. Fathers also indicated that leadership and funding for programs of families of children with CCN should be priorities for policymakers. CONCLUSIONS In addition to documenting fathers' active involvement in their child's care and development, our findings provide new insights into how fathers make participation in everyday life accessible and inclusive for their children. Study findings also point to 1) priority areas for policymakers (e.g., accessible physical environments); 2) factors that are critical for fostering collaborative care teams with fathers; and 3) the need for complex care teams in the adult health care system. Implications for those providing psychosocial support for these families are noted as well as knowledge gaps worthy of future exploration such as the role of diversity or intersectionality in fathering children with CCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta L Woodgate
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - Miriam Gonzalez
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Jacquie D Ripat
- College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Occupational Therapy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R215-771 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0T6, Canada
| | - Marie Edwards
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 89 Curry Place, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Gina Rempel
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, CE-208 Children's Hospital, Health Sciences Centre, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 840 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3A 1S1, Canada
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Sherman J, Bower KL, Eskandanian K. "100 Things I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me": Everyday Challenges Parents Face While Caring for Their Children With a Tracheostomy. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:10497323231217387. [PMID: 38193439 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231217387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Equitable access to appropriate care, emergency department services, and in-home support aids are needed to minimize the occurrences of adverse events that have a significant impact on families. However, many families of children with medical complexity (CMC) lack consistent care due to issues of health inequity. We conducted 11 qualitative interviews with primary caregivers who were asked about their experiences of providing care to children who have a tracheostomy and are supported by multiple life-saving machines at home. Guided by ecological systems theory, we identified three themes that contextualize the lived experiences of the participants who expressed needs that arose from poor interactions within the mesosystem. Findings convey participant frustrations that result from insufficient support, ineffective training, and inadequate healthcare coverage. Although each theme is organized systematically to emphasize specific concerns within the mesosystem, together these themes emphasize the inextricable relationship between daily needs with systemic barriers to care. We provide a discussion of these needs with a broader context that also impacts the perceived quality of care among families managing the needs of their children who are supported by life-saving technology. By addressing existing challenges and identifying opportunities for improvement within the healthcare system, we seek to contribute to the collective effort of advocating for ethical systemic change on behalf of CMC and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyle L Bower
- Department of Human Development & Family Science, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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Kennedy HM, Cole A, Berbert L, Schenkel SR, DeGrazia M. An examination of characteristics, social supports, caregiver resilience and hospital readmissions of children with medical complexity. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13206. [PMID: 38123168 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with medical complexity (CMC) account for 1% of children in the United States. These children experience frequent hospital readmissions, high healthcare costs and poor health outcomes. A link between CMC caregiver social support, resilience and hospital readmissions has never been fully investigated. This study examines the feasibility of a prospective, descriptive, repeated measures research design to characterize CMC and their caregivers, social supports, caregiver resilience and hospital readmissions to inform a larger prospective investigation. METHODS Caregivers of CMC with unplanned hospitalizations completed surveys at the index hospitalization and 30 and 60 days after discharge. CMC caregiver and child characteristics, social supports and hospital readmissions were examined using an investigator-developed survey. Resilience was measured using the Resilience Scale-14© (7-Point Likert Scale, score range 14-98), and feasibility was measured by calculating enrolment, attrition, survey completion and item response. Analysis included descriptive statistics and qualitative data visualization. RESULTS Of caregivers who were approached for participation, 81.1% consented and completed 76 surveys. Attrition was 31%. Item response rates were ≥ 90% for all but one item. A total of 62.1% of children had hospital readmissions within 90 days and 37.9% within 30 days. Additionally, 70% of caregivers had home care nursing, but the approved hours were only partially filled. More than 70% of caregiver resilience scores were moderate to high (score range 74-98) and were stable across repeated measures and hospital readmissions. Open-ended question responses revealed the following five categories: All-consuming, Family Reliance, Impact of Covid, Taking Action and Broken System. CONCLUSIONS Studying CMC caregiver social supports and resilience using repeated measures is feasible. CMC caregivers reported stressors including coordinating their child's substantial healthcare needs and managing partially filled home care nursing hours. Caregiver resilience remained stable over time, amidst frequent CMC hospital readmissions. Findings can inform future research priorities and power analyses for CMC caregiver resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Kennedy
- Department of Nursing Patient Care Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Alexandra Cole
- Cardiovascular and Critical Care Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura Berbert
- Biostatistics and Research Design Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Michele DeGrazia
- Department of Nursing Patient Care Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Coller RJ, Green HD, Kaminski PC, Howell K, Alfaro E, Nelson C, Warner G, Werner NE. Feasibility of social network analysis to study outcomes of children with medical complexity. J Hosp Med 2024; 19:35-39. [PMID: 37880922 PMCID: PMC10843286 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.13231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Since most care for children with medical complexity (CMC) is delivered daily in communities by multiple caregiving individuals, that is, caregiving networks, tools to assess and intervene across these networks are needed. This study evaluated the feasibility of applying social network analysis (SNA) to describe caregiving networks. Because hospitalization is among the most frequently used outcomes for CMC, exploratory correlations between network characteristics and CMC hospital use were evaluated. Within 3 weeks, the goal network enrollment was achieved, and all feasibility measures were favorable. Network characteristics correlated with hospital use, that is, smaller, denser networks, with more closed-loop communication correlated with fewer hospital days. Networks with more professional caregivers also correlated with fewer hospital days. SNA is a feasible tool to study CMC caregiving networks. Preliminary data support rigorous hypothesis testing using SNA methods. Network-based interventions to improve CMC health may be an important future direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J. Coller
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Harold D. Green
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Patrick C. Kaminski
- Indiana University Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, Indiana, USA
| | - Kristina Howell
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Elena Alfaro
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Cassandra Nelson
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gemma Warner
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Nicole E. Werner
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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McLorie EV, Hackett J, Fraser LK. Understanding parents' experiences of care for children with medical complexity in England: a qualitative study. BMJ Paediatr Open 2023; 7:e002057. [PMID: 37550084 PMCID: PMC10407344 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2023-002057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand parents' experiences of receiving care for their child with medical complexity. DESIGN Qualitative semi-structured interviews with parents of children with medical complexities across England analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Twenty parents from four hospital sites in England took part in the study, a total of 17 interviews were completed, 3 joint and 14 single parent interviews. Four themes were developed: parents feel abandoned; continuity of care (made up of three subthemes); equipment barriers; and charities fill the gaps. CONCLUSIONS The perceived quality of healthcare provided to this population was found to be inconsistent, positive examples referred to continuity of care; communication, clinical management and long-lasting relationships. However, many experienced challenges when receiving care for their children; many of these challenges have been highlighted over the past two to three decades but despite the children's needs becoming more complex, little progress appears to have been made. Parents were seen as adopting significant additional roles beyond being a parent, but they still find themselves left without support across all areas. These families require more structured support. Policy makers and commissioners need to prioritise the needs of families to enable health and social care services to provide the support required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Hackett
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Lorna Katharine Fraser
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
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Xanthopoulos MS, Nelson MN, Eriksen W, Barg FK, Byars KC, Ishman SL, Esbensen AJ, Meinzen-Derr J, Heubi CH, Gurbani NS, Bradford R, Hicks S, Tapia IE. Caregiver experiences helping children with Down syndrome use positive airway pressure to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep Med 2023; 107:179-186. [PMID: 37196396 PMCID: PMC10330846 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2023.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE While positive airway pressure (PAP) is an efficacious intervention for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children with Down syndrome (DS), implementation and consistent use can be difficult. Caregiver perspectives and experiences using PAP are described with the aim of informing clinical practice. METHODS Qualitative semi-structured phone interviews were conducted with 40 caregivers (i.e., mothers) of children with DS and OSAS treated with PAP for at least 6 months. Content analysis was used to identify themes associated with adherence and non-adherence. RESULTS Respondents indicated variability in caregiver experience with the adoption of PAP and observed benefits of PAP. Varied experiences were attributed to several themes including accessing supplies, interactions with the medical team and equipment company, and patients' unique needs and behaviors, including the child's willingness and ability to adapt to PAP, sensory sensitivities, keeping the mask on all night, and differences in daytime behavior. Many families reported that desensitization with a reward system and trust within the caregiver-patient relationship were helpful. Caregiver suggestions for improving PAP adherence for families of children with DS included improving communication with the medical team and medical equipment company, emphasizing patience, using visual supports, and social support and education for extended family. CONCLUSIONS Although family experiences varied, several actionable strategies by both the medical team and families emerged for improving the experience of and adherence to PAP in children with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa S Xanthopoulos
- Sleep Center, Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Maria N Nelson
- Mixed Methods Research Lab, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Whitney Eriksen
- Mixed Methods Research Lab, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Frances K Barg
- Mixed Methods Research Lab, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kelly C Byars
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology/Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Stacey L Ishman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Anna J Esbensen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jareen Meinzen-Derr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christine H Heubi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Neepa S Gurbani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ruth Bradford
- Sleep Center, Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Suzanna Hicks
- Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ignacio E Tapia
- Sleep Center, Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Teicher J, Moore C, Esser K, Weiser N, Arje D, Cohen E, Orkin J. The Experience of Parental Caregiving for Children With Medical Complexity. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:633-644. [PMID: 36475307 PMCID: PMC10676025 DOI: 10.1177/00099228221142102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Children with medical complexity (CMC) have complex chronic conditions with significant functional impairment, contributing to high caregiving demand. This study seeks to explore impacts of parental caregiving for CMC. Fifteen caregivers of CMC followed at a tertiary care hospital participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were concurrently analyzed using a qualitative description framework until thematic saturation was reached. Codes were grouped by shared concepts to clarify emergent findings. Four affected domains of parental caregiver experience with associated subthemes (in parentheses) were identified: personal (identity, physical health, mental health), family (marriage, siblings, family quality of life), social (time limitations, isolating lived experience), and financial (employment, medical costs, accessibility costs). Despite substantial challenges, caregivers identified two core determinants of personal resilience: others' support (hands-on, interpersonal, informational, material) and a positive outlook (self-efficacy, self-compassion, reframing expectations). Further research is needed to understand the unique needs and strengths of caregivers for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Teicher
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Clara Moore
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kayla Esser
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Natalie Weiser
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle Arje
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eyal Cohen
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Paediatric Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Edwin S.H. Leong Centre for Healthy Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julia Orkin
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Paediatric Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
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León-Campos Á, García-Mayor S, Martí-García C, Morilla-Herrera JC, Morales-Asencio JM, Lupiáñez-Pérez I, Pérez-Ardanaz B, Cuevas Fernandez-Gallego M. Quality of Life, Physical and Mental Health, and Economic Evaluation of Family Caregivers of Chronic Dependent Children: INFAPRINT Cohort Study Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5081. [PMID: 36981989 PMCID: PMC10049089 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caregivers for children with complex chronic illnesses may experience emotional and physical strain, especially as concerns attention overload and the perceptions of their own psychosocial situation. These concerns, together with the additional financial cost and the socioeconomic inequalities that arise from caregiving responsibilities, create major challenges to the health status of this population group. METHODS A prospective analytical longitudinal study will be conducted, based on an exposed cohort of adult caregivers (parents or guardians) for children with complex chronic processes, to evaluate the impact of caregiving responsibilities on the health status of this population group. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The practical implications of this study are of great significance for clinical practice. The results of this study have the potential to inform the decision-making process in the healthcare sector and guide future research initiatives. The findings of this study will provide crucial insights into the health-related quality of life of caregivers of children with complex chronic illnesses, which will be valuable in addressing the challenges faced by this population group. This information can be used to improve the availability and accessibility of appropriate health services and to facilitate the development of more equitable health outcomes for caregivers of children with complex chronic illnesses. By highlighting the extent to which this population is affected both physically and mentally, the study can contribute to the development of clinical practices that prioritize the health and well-being of caregivers in the care of children with complex chronic illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro León-Campos
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
| | - Silvia García-Mayor
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
| | - Celia Martí-García
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Morilla-Herrera
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
- Andalusian Health Service, District Malaga-Guadalhorce, 29004 Malaga, Spain
| | - José Miguel Morales-Asencio
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Lupiáñez-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
- Andalusian Health Service, District Malaga-Guadalhorce, 29004 Malaga, Spain
| | - Bibiana Pérez-Ardanaz
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
| | - Magdalena Cuevas Fernandez-Gallego
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malaga, 29071 Malaga, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), 29590 Malaga, Spain
- Andalusian Health Service, District Malaga-Guadalhorce, 29004 Malaga, Spain
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Giambra BK, Spratling R. Examining Children With Complex Care and Technology Needs in the Context of Social Determinants of Health. J Pediatr Health Care 2022; 37:262-268. [PMID: 36462998 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Children with complex care and technology needs require daily, intensive care from family caregivers. These children are understudied, particularly in relation to the social determinants of health (SDOH) that affect their health, well-being, and quality of life. This paper examines the salient research on SDOH among this population, focusing on the Healthy People 2030 domains. Gaps in the research are identified and recommendations for future research, practice, policy, and education are presented. Pediatric nurses, advanced practice nurses, and other health care provider teams that care for these children and families can improve their health by examining and addressing SDOH.
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Foster C, Kaat AJ, Shaunfield S, Lin E, Coleman C, Storey M, Morales L, Davis MM. PediHome: Development of a Family-Reported Measure of Pediatric Home Healthcare Quality. Acad Pediatr 2022; 22:1510-1519. [PMID: 35439604 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE No validated tools exist to measure pediatric home healthcare quality. The objective of this work was to develop a family-reported survey (PediHome) to measure the quality of home healthcare for children with medical complexity (CMC). METHODS A national multidisciplinary expert panel (N = 19) was convened to develop survey content domains. Panelist were joined by 3 additional experts to rank candidate survey items for importance and evaluate relevance and structure. Cognitive interviews were conducted with English-speaking (n = 12) and Spanish-speaking (n = 4) family caregivers of CMC to revise problematic items and clarify response options. A cross-sectional survey was then fielded (6/1/20-10/31/20) to parents whose children receive healthcare at 2 regional academic medical centers. RESULTS The final measure included N = 28 total items with 4 items quantifying access, 1 evaluating overall quality rating, and 21 items assessing provider tasks (11 home nursing only, 2 certified nursing assistant/home health aide only, and 1 dual). Out of 312 caregivers of CMC, 142 (46%) responded and one-half (n = 68, 48%) reported a child receiving home nursing. They received a weekly median of 58.4% (IQR ±31.2%) of approved nursing hours with 55% reporting a missed nursing shift within the last month. Median overall quality was 75-9 (0-10 scale) and median scores on specific quality items ranged from 31-4 to 43-4 (0-4 scale). CONCLUSIONS PediHome is a new content-valid family-reported measure of home healthcare quality for CMC that is useful for evaluating healthcare quality across several domains. Future work will involve assessing PediHome's construct and predictive validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Foster
- Division of Advanced General Pediatrics and Primary Care, Department of Pediatrics (C Foster and MM Davis), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill; Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research, and Evaluation Center (C Foster and MM Davis), Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Ill.
| | - Aaron J Kaat
- Department of Medical Social Sciences (AJ Kaat, S Shaunfield, L Morales and MM Davis), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| | - Sara Shaunfield
- Department of Medical Social Sciences (AJ Kaat, S Shaunfield, L Morales and MM Davis), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| | - Elaine Lin
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics (E Lin), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Cara Coleman
- Family Voices National (C Coleman), Lexington, Mass
| | - Margaret Storey
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Family Advisory Board (M Storey), Chicago, Ill
| | - Luis Morales
- Department of Medical Social Sciences (AJ Kaat, S Shaunfield, L Morales and MM Davis), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| | - Matthew M Davis
- Division of Advanced General Pediatrics and Primary Care, Department of Pediatrics (C Foster and MM Davis), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill; Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research, and Evaluation Center (C Foster and MM Davis), Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Ill; Department of Medical Social Sciences (AJ Kaat, S Shaunfield, L Morales and MM Davis), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill; Departments of Medicine and Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (MM Davis), Chicago, Ill
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15
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Home-Based Care for Children with Serious Illness: Ecological Framework and Research Implications. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9081115. [PMID: 35892618 PMCID: PMC9330186 DOI: 10.3390/children9081115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Care for U.S. children living with serious illness and their families at home is a complex and patchwork system. Improving home-based care for children and families requires a comprehensive, multilevel approach that accounts for and examines relationships across home environments, communities, and social contexts in which children and families live and receive care. We propose a multilevel conceptual framework, guided by Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model, that conceptualizes the complex system of home-based care into five levels. Levels 1 and 2 contain patient and family characteristics. Level 3 contains factors that influence family health, well-being, and experience with care in the home. Level 4 includes the community, including community groups, schools, and providers. Level 5 includes the broader regional system of care that impacts the care of children and families across communities. Finally, care coordination and care disparities transcend levels, impacting care at each level. A multilevel ecological framework of home-based care for children with serious illness and families can be used in future multilevel research to describe and test hypotheses about aspects of this system of care, as well as to inform interventions across levels to improve patient and family outcomes.
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