Update and Review: Cystic Fibrosis

Family structure and mothers' caregiving of children with cystic fibrosis

The purpose of this investigation is to examine differences in the experiences of mothers of children with cystic fibrosis who are in diverse family structures (first-marriage families, stepfamily households, single-parent households). In particular, mothers' perceptions of children's health, adherence to prescribed treatments, and help received from others were compared and predictors of treatment adherence were examined. Children's health and adherence to treatment regimens were not related to family structure. Mothers had the major responsibility for seeing that cystic fibrosis treatments were followed, regardless of family structure. Single mothers received less help than married and repartnered mothers. Married fathers helped with treatments more than nonresidential divorced fathers and stepfathers. Implications for nursing practice and suggestions for future research are offered.

Mothers in postdivorce families caring for a child with cystic fibrosis

This study explored the experiences of mothers of children with cystic fibrosis (CF) in postdivorce family structures. In-depth interviews of mothers were conducted by registered nurses with expertise in CF. Interviews focused on responsibility for care of the CF child within the context of postdivorce families (e.g., extent of nonresidential fathers' involvement in children's care, communication between households). Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The constant comparison method was used for analyzing interview data. Marital transitions contributed to the closeness between mothers and children with CF, but they also added to the mothers' sense of being overwhelmed with responsibilities. It is likely that children and mothers are more at risk for stress-related problems when mothers are overburdened by the demands of caregiving, earning a living, and other responsibilities.

Molecular diagnosis of cystic fibrosis

A review of the current molecular diagnosis of cystic fibrosis including an introduction to cystic fibrosis, the gene function, the phenotypic variation, who should be screened for which mutation, newborn and couple screening, quality assurance, phenotype-genotype correlation, methods and method limitations, options, statements, recommendations, useful Websites and treatments.

Impact of genome research on children and their families

Human genome research has made it possible to identify the presence of gene mutations in persons with specific genetic, conditions, who may be carriers of genetic disorders, or who are at risk for future development of inherited diseases. Gene discovery has the potential to identify individual response to medications and new management and preventive interventions. Pediatric nurses must be informed about genetic discoveries and their implications for child and family health to act as advocates for children and their families in all child health care settings.