The needs of parents during child hospitalization: a qualitative study

Background and Objective: One of the main sources of tension and anxiety for parents is hospitalization of child in hospital. Considering the importance of family-centered care, it is essential to understand the needs of parents in order to provide them. This study was conducted to identify the needs of parents during child hospitalization.

Materials and Method: The current qualitative study was conducted through conventional content analysis. Eighteen parents of hospitalized children in pediatric ward of hospitals in the city of Yazd in 2012 were selected through purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews were done. Data analysis was conducted using qualitative content analysis.

Results: Data analysis revealed “the continuing role of parent” as the major theme. This theme is including the five main categories of need to receive information, need to participate in care, need to comfort, need to psychological-emotional support and need to peace of mind.

Conclusion: Based on the results, it is essential that nurses focus on the identified needs of parents and try to meet them in order to maintain the role of parent and thus improving the quality of child care