Article

PURPOSE: To describe the experiences of parents of children admitted to hospital
for a burn. METHODS: In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 parents (14
mothers and seven fathers) of children who had sustained a burn requiring
hospitalisation. Face-to-face interviews were conducted six months post-burn, in
rural, remote and metropolitan areas. The interview guide explored the overall
experience of parents and included probing questions exploring the perceptions,
thoughts and feelings of participants. Interviews were digitally recorded and
transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed according to the seven-step
Coliazzi method. Relationships between themes were explored to identify core
concepts. RESULTS: Analysis of interview transcripts revealed three phases that
describe the parents' journey: experiencing the accident, the in-patient phase
and the return to community. Within these phases, themes were identified. Themes
represented subthemes of stressors, behavioural and emotional responses and
coping factors. CONCLUSION: Findings from this research will allow health
professionals to optimise a holistic clinical service from a consumer's
perspective at all stages of the burn journey. These research conclusions could
be used for the development of protocols to underpin a comprehensive information
and social support management plan for families that would complement and support
the surgical, medical and therapeutic treatment plan, providing direction for
comprehensive service delivery. Implications for Rehabilitation Health
professionals should optimise a holistic clinical service from a consumer's
perspective taking into consideration all stages of the burn journey. Therapeutic
supports are required to target each phase of the burn journey and address
changes in coping strategies and behavioural responses.
There is a need for the
development of protocols to underpin a comprehensive information and social
support management plan for families that will complement and support the
surgical and medical treatment plan.
- Enfant

Langue : ANGLAIS