Predictors of Post-traumatic stress symptomology in parents of infants with Congenital Heart Disease post-surgery and after four months

Golfenshtein, Nadya; Lisanti, Amy Jo; Cui, Naixue; Cooper, Barbara Medoff

doi:10.1016/j.pedn.2021.11.013

Cited by 5 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 52 publications

(60 reference statements)

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“…44,45 Measures of anxiety have been associated with elevated post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in parents of children with CHD. 45,46 Like our findings, Turgoose et al did not find significant demographic or clinical factors that predict post-traumatic stress disorder in parents of children with CHD (any type) undergoing bypass. 45 Parents need support and education to help them adapt to the stress and challenge of raising a child with critical CHD.…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 72%

Prevalence and associated factors of post-traumatic stress disorder in parents whose infants have single ventricle heart disease

Bainton

Trachtenberg²,

McCrindle

et al. 2023

Cardiol Young

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Introduction: Post-traumatic stress disorder occurs in parents of infants with CHD, contributing to psychological distress with detrimental effects on family functioning and well-being. We sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in parents whose infants underwent staged palliation for single ventricle heart disease. Materials and methods: A large longitudinal multi-centre cohort study evaluated 215 mothers and fathers for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder at three timepoints, including post-Norwood, post-Stage II, and a final study timepoint when the child reached approximately 16 months of age, using the self-report questionnaire Impact of Event Scale – Revised. Results: The prevalence of probable post-traumatic stress disorder post-Norwood surgery was 50% of mothers and 39% of fathers, decreasing to 27% of mothers and 24% of fathers by final follow-up. Intrusive symptoms such as flashbacks and nightmares and hyperarousal symptoms such as poor concentration, irritability, and sudden physical symptoms of racing heart and difficulty breathing were particularly elevated in parents. Higher levels of anxiety, reduced coping, and decreased satisfaction with parenting were significantly associated with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in parents. Demographic and clinical variables such as parent education, pre-natal diagnosis, medical complications, and length of hospital stay(s) were not significantly associated with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Discussion: Parents whose infants underwent staged palliation for single ventricle heart disease often reported symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Symptoms persisted over time and routine screening might help identify parents at-risk and prompt referral to appropriate supports.

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