Parents' information needs regarding their child's elective minor surgery

Abstract

Literature acknowledges the distress that a child's hospitalization and surgery can have on both the child and parents (Beddows, 1997; Sheldon, 1997). Hence to reduce stress during hospitalisation, it is widely accepted that children and parents need adequate information (Department of Health, 2004). This study has explored the information needs of parents when their child is hospitalized for an elective minor surgical intervention. A convenience sample of parents (n=30), who had their child under the care of four particular consultants contributed in this study. A questionnaire formulated by the researcher was used for collection of data. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics whilst qualitative data collected was analysed through content analysis. The findings indicated that parents were mostly satisfied with the initial provision of information regarding their child's diagnosis, which was mainly delivered by a member of the medical profession. The study also revealed that the nurse had no key role in delivering this initial information. However results indicated that parents required further information regarding pre and post- operative care and discharge advice. The results highlighted several nursing implications and a number of reconL'Tiendations. Nurses need to take a more active role in providing information. Furthermore nurses need to be knowledgeable regarding latest research and protocols on pre and post operative care so as to deliver the correct information and avoid any conflicting advice. It is recommended that the provision of discharge advice is reinforced in order to make sure that it has been delivered and understood well. Moreover, sources of information such as leaflets, hospital online sites and discharge advice sheets should be made available for parents to equip themselves with all the required information regarding their child's elective minor surgery.