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Tarantino S, Proietti Checchi M, Papetti L, Monte G, Ferilli MAN, Valeriani M. Parental Experiences in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: Insights from Quantitative Research. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:71. [PMID: 38255384 PMCID: PMC10814813 DOI: 10.3390/children11010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and unpredictable inflammatory disease impacting the central nervous system. The disabling nature of this disease is not limited to only physical symptoms. MS, even at a pediatric age, often includes cognitive impairment, fatigue, and psychological issues, affecting education and social life, causing emotional distress, and reducing quality of life. Despite the paucity of quantitative data in the existing literature, our review demonstrates that the impact of pediatric MS extends beyond the patients themselves, affecting their parents as well. There is evidence suggesting that having a child with MS may be associated with a reduction in the parental quality of life, even in families of MS patients with low or no disability and without clinical relapses. Moreover, an increased risk of parents' mental illness has been described, particularly in mothers, leading to a heightened utilization of mental health services. Research data show that inadequate information about MS may impact parents' anxiety and their sense of competence. Since parents' involvement has been found to also play a role in their child's adherence to treatment, special attention should be paid to parental psychological health. Additional research exploring family adaptation to their children's illness is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuela Tarantino
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00165 Rome, Italy (L.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Martina Proietti Checchi
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00165 Rome, Italy (L.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Laura Papetti
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00165 Rome, Italy (L.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Gabriele Monte
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00165 Rome, Italy (L.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Michela Ada Noris Ferilli
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00165 Rome, Italy (L.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Massimiliano Valeriani
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 00165 Rome, Italy (L.P.); (M.V.)
- Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
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Parkinson A, Brunoro C, Leayr J, Fanning V, Chisholm K, Drew J, Desborough J, Phillips C. Intertwined like a double helix: A meta-synthesis of the qualitative literature examining the experiences of living with someone with multiple sclerosis. Health Expect 2022; 25:803-822. [PMID: 35118764 PMCID: PMC9122458 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic serious condition of uncertain course and outcome. There is relatively little literature on the experiences of people who live with a person with MS. They inhabit a locus of care that spans caring for (a relational act) and caring about (a moral stance, addressing fairness, compassion and justice) the person with MS. Methods Using the theoretical lens of personhood, we undertook a scoping review and meta‐synthesis of the qualitative literature on the experiences of people who live with a person with MS, focusing on the nature of, and constraints upon, caring. Results Of 330 articles, 49 were included in the review. We identified five themes. One of these—seeking information and support—reflects the political economy of care. Two are concerned with the moral domain of care: caring as labour and living with uncertainty. The final two themes—changing identities and adapting to life with a person with MS—point to the negotiation and reconstitution of personhood for both the person with MS and the people they live with. Conclusion People with MS are embedded in relational social networks of partners, family and friends, which are fundamental in the support of their personhood; the people who live with them are ‘co‐constituents of the patient's identity’ assisting them to make sense of their world and self in times of disruption due to illness. Support services and health care professionals caring for people with MS are currently very much patient‐centred; young people in particular report that their roles are elided in the health system's interaction with a parent with MS. There is a need to look beyond the person with MS and recognize the relational network of people who surround them and broaden their focus to encompass this network. Patient and Public Involvement Our research team includes four members with MS and two members with lived experience of living or working with people with MS. A third person (not a team member) who lives with a partner with MS provided feedback on the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Parkinson
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Crystal Brunoro
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Jack Leayr
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Vanessa Fanning
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Katrina Chisholm
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Janet Drew
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Jane Desborough
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
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Paediatric Multiple Sclerosis: A Scoping Review of Patients’ and Parents’ Perspectives. CHILDREN 2021; 9:children9010011. [PMID: 35053636 PMCID: PMC8773986 DOI: 10.3390/children9010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Dealing with paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis is particularly challenging for the young patients and their families, due to its unpredictable symptoms and uncertain outcome. This review aimed at synthesising the qualitative evidence regarding the perspectives about paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis, as expressed by the patients and/or their parents. A literature search was conducted on PubMed and CINAHL. The advanced multi-field search allowed to perform an abstract/title search in both databases, using keywords, combined through Boolean operators. Additional search strategies were adopted: searching the reference list of the selected papers; searching for key authors in the field. All the relevant papers were thoroughly revised using The Joanna Briggs Institute’s data extraction form for qualitative evidence as a guidance. Eight papers were selected. The analysis of these papers allowed to identify some common issues pertaining paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis: (1) onset of symptoms, (2) diagnostic process, (3) reaction to the diagnosis, (4) management and acceptance of multiple sclerosis. The burden of multiple sclerosis was confirmed. However, the young patients and their parents can adjust to the disease. Both the community and the health care professionals must strive to prevent the families dealing with multiple sclerosis from experiencing solitude and rejection.
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Davison G, Kelly MA, Conn R, Thompson A, Dornan T. How do children and adolescents experience healthcare professionals? Scoping review and interpretive synthesis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e054368. [PMID: 34244289 PMCID: PMC8273482 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Explore children's and adolescents' (CADs') lived experiences of healthcare professionals (HCPs). DESIGN Scoping review methodology provided a six-step framework to, first, identify and organise existing evidence. Interpretive phenomenology provided methodological principles for, second, an interpretive synthesis of the life worlds of CADs receiving healthcare, as represented by verbatim accounts of their experiences. DATA SOURCES Five key databases (Ovid Medline, Embase, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) Plus, and Web of Science), from inception through to January 2019, reference lists, and opportunistically identified publications. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Research articles containing direct first-person quotations by CADs (aged 0-18 years inclusive) describing how they experienced HCPs. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Tabulation of study characteristics, contextual information, and verbatim extraction of all 'relevant' (as defined above) direct quotations. Analysis of basic scope of the evidence base. The research team worked reflexively and collaboratively to interpret the qualitative data and construct a synthesis of children's experiences. To consolidate and elaborate the interpretation, we held two focus groups with inpatient CADs in a children's hospital. RESULTS 669 quotations from 99 studies described CADs' experiences of HCPs. Favourable experiences were of forming trusting relationships and being involved in healthcare discussions and decisions; less favourable experiences were of not relating to or being unable to trust HCPs and/or being excluded from conversations about them. HCPs fostered trusting relationships by being personable, wise, sincere and relatable. HCPs made CADs feel involved by including them in conversations, explaining medical information, and listening to CADs' wider needs and preferences. CONCLUSION These findings strengthen the case for making CADs partners in healthcare despite their youth. We propose that a criterion for high-quality child-centred healthcare should be that HCPs communicate in ways that engender trust and involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail Davison
- Centre for Medical Education, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Children's Emergency Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, UK
| | - Martina Ann Kelly
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Richard Conn
- Centre for Medical Education, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- General Paediatrics Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, UK
| | - Andrew Thompson
- General Paediatrics Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, UK
| | - Tim Dornan
- Centre for Medical Education, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Ghai S, Kasilingam E, Lanzillo R, Malenica M, van Pesch V, Burke NC, Carotenuto A, Maguire R. Needs and Experiences of Children and Adolescents with Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis and Their Caregivers: A Systematic Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:445. [PMID: 34070298 PMCID: PMC8226634 DOI: 10.3390/children8060445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In the present study we conduct a systematic review to evaluate the needs and experience of people with pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) and their caregivers. The literature search was conducted across 10 academic databases, adhering to PRISMA-P guidelines. Quality appraisal was conducted using the mixed method appraisal test for individual studies, and GRADE-CERQual to establish overall confidence of findings. Results were analyzed using a process of narrative synthesis. We identified 26 studies which included 2253 children/adolescents with MS (CAMS) and 1608 caregivers. MS was reported to negatively impact experiences for CAMS in domains such as of school performance, social relationships, mental health, and overall physical functioning. Specifically, fatigue and social support were reported as the most important barriers and facilitators for CAMS, respectively. In terms of caregiver experience, negative impacts were reported on social functioning, mental health, and quality of life. Additionally, lack of awareness concerning MS was one of the biggest challenges reported. Caregivers expressed needs for psychological and social support. This study provides the first evidence regarding the needs and experiences of CAMS and their caregivers. Findings can be used to address policy gaps for supporting families affected by pediatric MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Ghai
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3G 1Y5, Canada
- Feil & Oberfeld Research Centre of the Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital—CISSS Laval, a Research Site of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research of Greater Montreal (CRIR), Laval, QC H7V 1R2, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC GRM MDI, Canada
| | | | - Roberta Lanzillo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.L.); (A.C.)
| | - Masa Malenica
- Department of Child Neurology, Associated Member of the ERN EpiCARE, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Vincent van Pesch
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, UCLouvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Niamh Caitlin Burke
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth W23 F2K8, Ireland; (N.C.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Antonio Carotenuto
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.L.); (A.C.)
| | - Rebecca Maguire
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth W23 F2K8, Ireland; (N.C.B.); (R.M.)
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Brigden A, Shaw A, Crawley E. "it's a medical condition … you need to support as much as possible": a qualitative analysis of teachers' experiences of chronic fatigue syndrome / myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:6. [PMID: 33397331 PMCID: PMC7780629 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-020-02461-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An increasing number of children with complex health needs are being educated in mainstream classes. CFS/ME is a complex and disabling condition, and there is little guidance on how primary school teachers can support younger children with this condition. To improve care, it is important to understand what these children need in the school setting, and the barriers and facilitators to teachers providing this support. The aims for this qualitative study were to explore teachers’ views about CFS/ME, their experiences of supporting a pupil with CFS/ME and their perspectives on the barriers and facilitators to providing support. Methods We recruited families from an NHS specialist paediatric CFS/ME service and families were eligible if the child was aged between 5 and 11 years and had a diagnosis of CFS/ME. We gained written consent/assent from families to invite the child’s teacher to participate in a qualitative interview. We contacted these teachers, gained written consent and then carried out semi-structured qualitative interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, anonymised and analysed thematically. Interviews took place between July 2018 and December 2018. Results We interviewed 11 teachers; their pupil’s age ranged from 5 to 11 years and school attendance ranged from 0 to 80%. Theme 1: Most teachers provided rich descriptions of their pupil’s CFS/ME; they consistently described cognitive dysfunction and significant fatigue, but beyond this the symptoms varied from one account to the next (from mobility problems, to aches and pains, digestive problems, headaches, nausea and hypersensitivity). These teachers noted the ripple effects on their pupil’s social, emotional and academic functioning. Two of the eleven teachers said that they did not observe symptoms of CFS/ME, expressing a degree of scepticism about the diagnosis. Theme 2: Teachers described a close relationship with their pupil. They said they understood the individual needs of the child and portrayed positive and proactive attitudes towards providing support. The type of support provided included facilitating rest breaks and limiting strenuous activities; using practical strategies to address cognitive, physical, social and emotional difficulties; maintaining a connection with the child during their absences from school; and encouraging the child to talk about their health and wellbeing. Teachers noted that receiving formal confirmation of the child’s diagnosis enabled them to put this support in place. Theme 3: The adaptations they described were often intuitive, rather than being based on a knowledge of CFS/ME. Teachers wanted more resources to increase their understanding of the condition and its management. Conclusions Primary school teachers want to provide effective support for children with CFS/ME. Clinical services should consider working in collaboration with teachers to equip them with evidence-based strategies for CFS/ME management in the primary school setting. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-020-02461-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amberly Brigden
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK.
| | - Alison Shaw
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK
| | - Esther Crawley
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 1-5 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 1NU, UK
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Luchesa Smith A, Benetou C, Bullock H, Kuczynski A, Rudebeck S, Hanson K, Crichton S, Mankad K, Siddiqui A, Byrne S, Lim M, Hemingway C. Progress in the Management of Paediatric-Onset Multiple Sclerosis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 7:E222. [PMID: 33182341 PMCID: PMC7695340 DOI: 10.3390/children7110222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made in the understanding and treatment of paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS); how this has translated into more effective care is less well understood. Here, we evaluate how recent advances have affected patient management and outcomes with a retrospective review of POMS patients managed at two paediatric neuroimmunology centres. Two cohorts, seen within a decade, were compared to investigate associations between management approaches and outcomes. Demographic, clinical and neurocognitive data were extracted from case notes and analysed. Of 51 patients, 24 were seen during the period 2007-2010 and 27 during the period 2015-2016. Median age at onset was 13.7 years; time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 9 months. Disease-modifying therapies were commenced in 19 earlier-cohort and 24 later-cohort patients. Median time from diagnosis to treatment was 9 months for earlier vs. 3.5 months in later patients (p = 0.013). A wider variety of treatments were used in the later cohort (four medications earlier vs. seven in the later and two clinical trials), with increased quality of life and neurocognitive monitoring (8% vs. 48% completed PedsQL quality of life inventory; 58% vs. 89% completed neurocognitive assessment). In both cohorts, patients were responsive to disease-modifying therapy (mean annualised relapse rate pre-treatment 2.7 vs. 1.7, mean post-treatment 0.74 vs. 0.37 in earlier vs. later cohorts). In conclusion, over the years, POMS patients were treated sooner with a wider variety of medications and monitored more comprehensively. However, this hugely uncontrolled cohort did not allow us to identify key determinants for the improvements observed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christina Benetou
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (C.B.); (S.R.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Hayley Bullock
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London WC1N 3JH, UK; (H.B.); (K.H.)
| | - Adam Kuczynski
- Department of Neuropsychology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London WC1N 3JH, UK;
| | - Sarah Rudebeck
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (C.B.); (S.R.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Katie Hanson
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London WC1N 3JH, UK; (H.B.); (K.H.)
| | - Sarah Crichton
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (C.B.); (S.R.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London WC1N 3JH, UK;
| | - Ata Siddiqui
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (C.B.); (S.R.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (S.B.)
- Department of Neuroradiology, King’s College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Susan Byrne
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (C.B.); (S.R.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Ming Lim
- Children’s Neurosciences, Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (C.B.); (S.R.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (S.B.)
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Cheryl Hemingway
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London WC1N 3JH, UK; (H.B.); (K.H.)
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Burke T, Vucic S, Patching J. "Taming the Beast": Exploring the Lived Experience of Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Using a Life History Approach. Res Theory Nurs Pract 2020; 33:229-245. [PMID: 31615943 DOI: 10.1891/1541-6577.33.3.229] [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: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The aim of this study was to gain insights and understanding into the lived experience of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in order to better inform patient-centerd nursing and healthcare. METHODS This qualitative study used life history methodology, a form of focused ethnography, to explore the life history of 13 study participants living with RRMS. Semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. FINDINGS A total of eight key themes emerged, explaining the journey of living with RRMS. Commencing with "Piecing Together the Puzzle" of symptoms at the beginning of the RRMS journey, followed by "(Re)defining ME now that I have RRMS," "Battling the Demons," the experiences of "Surplus Suffering," negotiating "High Invisibility," gaining control by "Taming the Beast," learning "The DMT Dance," and ultimately "Holding Hands with Hope," expressing hope and practising purposeful positivity. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The eight key themes of living with RRMS were reflective of the ebbs and flows of life. By gaining these insights into the world of people living with RRMS, it is anticipated that clinical nursing care and quality of life for people living with this chronic neurological disease may be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese Burke
- School of Nursing, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Joanna Patching
- School of Nursing, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia
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Marrie RA, O'Mahony J, Maxwell C, Ling V, Yeh EA, Arnold DL, Bar-Or A, Banwell B. Increased mental health care use by mothers of children with multiple sclerosis. Neurology 2020; 94:e1040-e1050. [PMID: 31919112 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000008871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We compared the prevalence of physical and mental conditions and rate of health care utilization in mothers of children with multiple sclerosis (MS) (MS-mothers) with that of mothers of children without MS (non-MS-mothers). METHODS Using population-based administrative data from Ontario, Canada, we identified MS-mothers and non-MS-mothers, matched on maternal age at childbirth, region, and the child's age and sex at the time of MS diagnosis. We compared the prevalence of any physical condition or any mood or anxiety disorder between the cohorts, in the child's MS diagnosis year, and 5 years before and after diagnosis. We compared rates of physician visits before diagnosis, during the diagnosis year, and after the child's diagnosis using multivariable regression models with generalized estimating equations adjusting for maternal age, socioeconomic status, region of residence, and index year. RESULTS We identified 156 MS-mothers and 624 non-MS-mothers. MS-mothers had a higher prevalence of any physical condition and of any mood or anxiety disorder than non-MS-mothers, before, during, and after their child's diagnosis. On multivariable analysis, MS-mothers did not have higher rates of primary care visits (rate ratio [RR] 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90-1.20), but exhibited increased odds of having any psychiatry visits (odds ratio 1.60; 95% CI 1.10-2.31); the rate of visits did not differ when they did occur (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.33-1.30). CONCLUSION Mothers of children with MS use more mental health services before and after their child's MS diagnosis than mothers of children without MS. Pediatric health care providers should consider the mental well-being of mothers and their children with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Ann Marrie
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
| | - Julia O'Mahony
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Colleen Maxwell
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Vicki Ling
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - E Ann Yeh
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Douglas L Arnold
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Amit Bar-Or
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Brenda Banwell
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (J.O.) and Division of Neurology, Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute (E.A.Y.), The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto; Schools of Pharmacy and Public Health and Health Systems (C.M.), University of Waterloo; ICES (C.M., V.L.), Toronto; Department of Pediatrics (E.A.Y.), University of Toronto; Montreal Neurological Institute (D.L.A.), McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology (A.B.-O.), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Division of Child Neurology (B.B.), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
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Cross TP, Shanks AK, Duffy LV, Rintell DJ. Families' Experience of Pediatric Onset Multiple Sclerosis. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2019; 12:425-435. [PMID: 32318212 PMCID: PMC7163806 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-018-0243-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study interviewed parents to understand families' experience with pediatric onset multiple sclerosis (POMS), which make up 2.7% to 10.5% of all MS cases. 21 sets of parents of children with a confirmed diagnosis of POMS were recruited from two pediatric MS centers. Families experienced stress from the uncertainty prior to diagnosis, anxiety over symptoms and possible progression of the disease, frustrations with the uncertain effects of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs), and difficulties with injections. Families had to cope with cognitive and physical effects of POMS at school, decisions about expectations and independence for the child, and extra demands POMS placed on the family. Most parents reported benefitting from support from physicians, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the MS community. Families had benefitted from DMTs, and, despite the stresses, most had adapted successfully to the illness. Advice from interviewees to other parents and recommendations for improving family support are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore P. Cross
- Children and Family Research Center, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1010 W. Nevada St, Urbana, IL 61801 USA
| | - Alane K. Shanks
- Partners Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Present Address: Renga Consulting, Brookline, MA 02445 USA
| | - Lisa V. Duffy
- Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis & Related Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA USA
| | - David J. Rintell
- Partners Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Present Address: BridgeBio, Palo Alto, CA USA
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11
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Hebert D, Geisthardt C, Hoffman H. Insights and Recommendations From Parents Receiving a Diagnosis of Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis for Their Child. J Child Neurol 2019; 34:464-471. [PMID: 31012369 DOI: 10.1177/0883073819842420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Forty-two parents of 41 children reported on their experiences receiving a diagnosis of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis for their child through semistructured phone interviews. Time to diagnosis ranged from 8 hours to 16 years, with the mean age at diagnosis of 13.7 years. The most common initial symptoms included visual disturbances and numbness. The mean number of medical visits to receive a diagnosis was 3.6. Parents reported feeling frustrated and overwhelmed during the diagnosis process, as well as shocked when told their child had multiple sclerosis. Parents emphasized the need for more awareness of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis. Numerous parents reported encountering physicians who believed multiple sclerosis did not occur in childhood, contributing to a longer time to diagnosis. Parents preferred physicians first share the diagnosis with the parents without the child present. Finally, parents appreciated when physicians provided a variety of resources to help them cope with the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Hebert
- 1 Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Cheryl Geisthardt
- 2 College of Education and Human Services, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Holly Hoffman
- 2 College of Education and Human Services, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
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12
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Hinton D, Kirk S. Living with uncertainty and hope: A qualitative study exploring parents' experiences of living with childhood multiple sclerosis. Chronic Illn 2017; 13:88-99. [PMID: 27539955 DOI: 10.1177/1742395316664959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background There is growing recognition that multiple sclerosis is a possible, albeit uncommon, diagnosis in childhood. However, very little is known about the experiences of families living with childhood multiple sclerosis and this is the first study to explore this in depth. Objective Our objective was to explore the experiences of parents of children with multiple sclerosis. Methods Qualitative in-depth interviews with 31 parents using a grounded theory approach were conducted. Parents were sampled and recruited via health service and voluntary sector organisations in the United Kingdom. Results Parents' accounts of life with childhood multiple sclerosis were dominated by feelings of uncertainty associated with four sources; diagnostic uncertainty, daily uncertainty, interaction uncertainty and future uncertainty. Parents attempted to manage these uncertainties using specific strategies, which could in turn create further uncertainties about their child's illness. However, over time, ongoing uncertainty appeared to give parents hope for their child's future with multiple sclerosis. Conclusion Illness-related uncertainties appear to play a role in generating hope among parents of a child with multiple sclerosis. However, this may lead parents to avoid sources of information and support that threatens their fragile optimism. Professionals need to be sensitive to the role hope plays in supporting parental coping with childhood multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Hinton
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Susan Kirk
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
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Mücke U, Klemann C, Baumann U, Meyer-Bahlburg A, Kortum X, Klawonn F, Lechner WM, Grigull L. Patient's Experience in Pediatric Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders: Computerized Classification of Questionnaires. Front Immunol 2017; 8:384. [PMID: 28424699 PMCID: PMC5380667 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDs) are a heterogeneous group of more than 200 rare diseases. Timely diagnosis is of uttermost importance. Therefore, we aimed to develop a diagnostic questionnaire with computerized pattern-recognition in order to support physicians to identify suspicious patient histories. Materials and methods Standardized interviews were conducted with guardians of children with PID. The questionnaire based on parental observations was developed using Colaizzis’ framework for content analysis. Answers from 64 PID patients and 62 controls were analyzed by data mining methods in order to make a diagnostic prediction. Performance was evaluated by k-fold stratified cross-validation. Results The diagnostic support tool achieved a diagnostic sensitivity of up to 98%. The analysis of 12 interviews revealed 26 main phenomena observed by parents in the pre-diagnostic period. The questions were systematically phrased and selected resulting in a 36-item questionnaire. This was answered by 126 patients with or without PID to evaluate prediction. Item analysis revealed significant questions. Discussion Our approach proved suitable for recognizing patterns and thus differentiates between observations of PID patients and control groups. These findings provide the basis for developing a tool supporting physicians to consider a PID with a questionnaire. These data support the notion that patient’s experience is a cornerstone in the diagnostic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs Mücke
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christian Klemann
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Baumann
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Xiaowei Kortum
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Frank Klawonn
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany.,Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, Wolfenbuettel, Germany
| | | | - Lorenz Grigull
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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