Parents of children with non-malignant life-limiting conditions frequently accept roles that exceed the conventional activities of parenting in relation to the intensity, complexity and temporal nature of the family caregiver experience. This paper explores the prevalent and all-consuming experiences of parents caring for their children. A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Twenty-three parents (both mothers and fathers) were interviewed. Transcribed interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis. ‘Managing an unexpected life’ was the central concept when parents recounted ongoing efforts to address the emotional and practical effects of their child’s condition on their life and that of their family. Analysis revealed three main distinct but interrelated themes within the concept of ‘Managing an unexpected life’ helping us enhance our understanding of parents’ experiences: ‘Striving for normality’, ‘Becoming the expert’ and ‘Fighting for your child’. Findings suggest that the central concept of ‘Managing an unexpected life’ appeared to be in keeping with a caregiver’s career. Findings likewise suggest the need for improved and focused support and services to enhance parents’ career caregiving.
Background: Children with non-malignant life-limiting conditions (NMLLCs) constitute the largest proportion of children requiring palliative care. In part, due to technological advances, growing numbers of such children are experiencing improved survival. Care is mostly provided at home by the family, with significant professional input at different points in the child's life trajectory. This study explored the experience of healthcare professionals caring for this cohort of children.Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design using single-occasion one-to-one semi-structured interviews collected data from 12 healthcare professionals' including nurses, social workers and doctors. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results:The findings highlighted the unfailing determination and dedication of healthcare professionals who provided care despite challenges with what seemed like 'with every fibre of their being'. Three key themes marked such strength and commitment; those were 'being there', 'being focused' and 'being strong'. 'Being there' explicitly highlighted expert care that was individualized and responsive to the child and family's unique needs. The provision of such care was often threatened and potentially compromised by the intricacies and challenges associated with children's palliative care (CPC) and service provision. 'Being focused' captured the sense that the healthcare professionals remained entirely focused on providing expert care despite these challenges. 'Being strong' epitomized the personal and professional impact on healthcare professionals who are working in this area and the manner in which they sustain themselves in 'being focused' and in 'being there'.
Conclusions:The healthcare professionals demonstrated their unwavering commitment to deliver quality care required by children and families, however against a background of issues relating to organizational constraints. The findings have implications for education/service providers such as the need for specific palliative care education at both pre-registration level and continuing professional development.
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