Parents' difficulties and information needs in coping with acute illness in preschool children: a qualitative study

Abstract

Objectives-To identify and explore difficulties parents experience with acute illness in young children and the information they seek to help them.Design-Qualitative study using semistructured one to one and group interviews with parents of preschool children.Setting-Disadvantaged inner city community.

Beliefs and Expectations of Canadian Parents Who Bring Febrile Children for Medical Care

“…14,15 Further, seeking medical advice helps them to share the burden of responsibility. 14,15 Our study did suggest that the degree of fever phobia decreases as the child ages and the parent gains experience. Older parents, parents with older children, and parents with more children were less likely to seek medical attention for their febrile child.…”

“…Previous research has shown that fever makes parents fear that their child might be seriously ill and suffer irreparable harm. 14,15 Frequent checking of temperature and attempts to manage symptoms help parents maintain a sense of control and reduce feelings of helplessness. 14,15 Further, seeking medical advice helps them to share the burden of responsibility.…”

“…14,15 Frequent checking of temperature and attempts to manage symptoms help parents maintain a sense of control and reduce feelings of helplessness. 14,15 Further, seeking medical advice helps them to share the burden of responsibility. 14,15 Our study did suggest that the degree of fever phobia decreases as the child ages and the parent gains experience.…”

“…14 However, few investigators have examined the specific nature of the stresses that contribute to parental expectations and the determinants of satisfaction when they bring their febrile children for medical care. [14][15][16] Understanding parental fears, expectations, and frustrations is important to provide appropriate teaching and care, thereby reducing parental anxiety and improving parents' ability to care for their febrile children. This study examines the fever-related beliefs, expectations, and satisfaction of Canadian parents bringing their young febrile children for medical care.…”

Access to Pediatric Rheumatology Care — A Major Challenge to Improving Outcome in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Table 1.

“…Irrespective of the ultimate diagnosis, the visibility, persistence, and perceived severity of symptoms are central to a parent's actions around help-seeking behavior 26 . Parents will notice a problem, but may not be able to judge the actual severity and need to seek expert advice 27 . In consultations with health professionals, parents often act as advocates for their sick child 26 , and have to balance being seen as responsible and vigilant against being labeled as overly neurotic, protective, or even exploitative.…”