Mini Review - Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing (2023) Volume 6, Issue 5

Family-centered care in pediatric nursing: Involving parents and caregivers.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Nursing, Chapel Hill, NC, United States

*Corresponding Author:

Carrie Harrison
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
School of Nursing, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
E-mail: carrieharrison@hotmail.com

Received: 05-Oct-2023, Manuscript No. AAICCN-23-118674; Editor assigned: 07-Oct--2023, PreQC No. AAICCN-23-118674 (PQ); Reviewed: 21-Oct-2023, QC No. AAICCN-23-118674; Revised: 24-Oct -2023, Manuscript No. AAICCN-23-118674(R); Published: 30-Oct-2023, DOI:10.35841/aaiccn-6.5.169

Citation: Harrison C. Family-centered care in pediatric nursing: Involving parents and caregivers. J Intensive Crit Care Nurs. 2023;6(5):169

Introduction

Pediatric nursing is a specialized field that requires not only medical expertise but also a deep understanding of the unique needs and dynamics of children and their families. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of family-centered care in pediatric nursing. This approach shifts the focus from solely treating the child to involving parents and caregivers as essential partners in the healthcare team. Family-centered care recognizes that parents and caregivers are integral to a child's well-being, and their active involvement can lead to better outcomes, improved patient satisfaction, and a more comprehensive approach to healthcare. In this article, we will explore the concept of family-centered care in pediatric nursing and its significance [1].

Understanding family-centered care

Family-centered care is a collaborative and holistic approach to pediatric nursing that recognizes the family as an essential part of the healthcare team. It emphasizes partnership, respect, and open communication between healthcare providers, parents, and caregivers to make decisions and set goals for the child's care. This approach acknowledges that parents and caregivers are experts in their child's life and well-being and that their knowledge and involvement can greatly enhance the quality of care [2].

Key principles of family-centered care

Family-centered care is built on several key principles:

Parents and caregivers are treated with respect and dignity. Their opinions and concerns are valued, and they are recognized as the primary decision-makers for their child's care. Open and honest communication between healthcare providers, parents, and caregivers is essential. This includes sharing information about the child's condition, treatment options, and progress. Healthcare providers work in partnership with parents and caregivers to plan and make decisions regarding the child's care. This partnership is based on mutual respect and trust. Parents and caregivers are provided with the necessary support and resources to actively participate in their child's care. This may include education, training, and emotional support. The child's needs, preferences, and goals are at the center of care planning. The approach is customized to the individual child and family [3].

Benefits of family-centered care

Research has shown that when parents and caregivers are actively involved in a child's healthcare, it can lead to improved health outcomes. They can help monitor and manage chronic conditions, administer medications, and provide emotional support, all of which contribute to the child's well-being. When parents and caregivers are actively engaged in their child's care, they are more likely to understand and follow the prescribed treatment plan. This can lead to better adherence to medications and therapies. A child's illness or hospitalization can be an incredibly stressful time for parents and caregivers. Family-centered care can help reduce their stress and anxiety by providing them with the support and resources they need. Families that are involved in care decisions tend to report higher levels of satisfaction with the healthcare experience. This positive experience can have long-lasting effects on the child's overall well-being. Family-centered care acknowledges and respects the diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs of families. This approach ensures that care is sensitive to cultural preferences and values, leading to better care outcomes [4].

Challenges in implementing family-centered care

Healthcare providers may face time constraints that limit their ability to fully engage with families. It's essential to find ways to efficiently involve parents and caregivers in the care process. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and their dynamics can vary greatly. Understanding and working within these dynamics can be challenging but is crucial for effective family-centered care. Language barriers, health literacy, and cultural differences can sometimes hinder effective communication between healthcare providers and families. Caring for a sick child can be emotionally draining for both families and healthcare providers. Managing emotions and providing support can be challenging [5].

Conclusion

Family-centered care in pediatric nursing is a philosophy and approach that recognizes the invaluable role that parents and caregivers play in a child's healthcare journey. By involving families as partners in care, healthcare providers can enhance health outcomes, reduce stress, and improve the overall patient experience. This approach is not just a matter of good practice; it's an ethical and compassionate way to provide care to some of the most vulnerable members of our society – our children. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and the holistic nature of healthcare that extends beyond medical treatments and into the realm of emotional support and shared decision-making.

References

1. Heller R, McKlindon D. Families as" faculty": parents educating caregivers about family-centered care. J Pediatr Nurs. 1996;22(5):428-32.

Indexed at, Google Scholar

2. Hill C, Knafl KA, Santacroce SJ. Family-centered care from the perspective of parents of children cared for in a pediatric intensive care unit: an integrative review. J Pediatr Nurs. 2018;41:22-33.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

3. Harrison TM. Family-centered pediatric nursing care: state of the science. J Pediatr Nurs. 2010;25(5):335-43.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

4. Bruce B, Ritchie J. Nurses' practices and perceptions of family-centered care. J Pediatr Nurs. 1997;12(4):214-22.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

5. Smith J, Swallow V, Coyne I. Involving parents in managing their child's long-term condition—a concept synthesis of family-centered care and partnership-in-care. J Pediatr Nurs. 2015;30(1):143-59.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref