Information on the Analysis of the Needs of Parents of Hospitalized Children and Its Results

Research conducted (spring 2024) on a group of 64 parents of preschool-aged children indicates that the parents of hospitalized children in Poland, similar to those in many other countries, require support on multiple levels, as their child’s hospital stay can be extremely stressful and emotionally exhausting for them. The primary areas of support needed by parents include:

1. Emotional Support

Psychological Assistance: Parents often experience stress, anxiety, and even guilt due to their child’s illness. They need access to psychologists, potentially via phone or messaging apps [new media serves as a supportive factor here], who can help them manage emotional overload and understand that their feelings are natural. This support could be offered directly on the ward or remotely, through messaging apps and mobile applications, allowing them to access help even in the challenging, often chaotic hospital environment. Parents need a safe space where they can process their emotions, which will enhance their ability to effectively support their child.

Social Support: In Poland, hospitals rarely organize meetings for parents to gather, share experiences, and receive support from other parents in similar situations. Parents tend to receive support from friends and family and also seek support groups online.

1. Informational Support

Information on the Child’s Health and Treatment: Parents need regular, reliable information on their child’s health status and treatment, presented in an understandable way. They also need help in interpreting complex medical terminology and understanding the treatment process. While specific terms can be checked online, ambiguity or unclear interpretations, combined with the wide range of emotions parents experience, can intensify the challenging situation for both the parents and child. Access to simple materials explaining medical terminology and procedures step-by-step can be invaluable, especially if presented as infographics or short videos.

Future Perspectives – Education on Continuing Care, Treatment Options, and Rehabilitation: After hospitalization, parents often need information on how to care for their child at home, what treatments or therapies may be required, and the available resources and support options (e.g., home care, rehabilitation, community support).

1. Practical/Organizational Support

Logistical and Financial Assistance: A child’s hospital stay often incurs expenses for the family (e.g., travel, accommodation near the hospital). Some hospitals offer support in the form of lodging for parents or assistance with transportation. Parents also have other responsibilities, such as work and caring for other family members. These issues raise serious concerns and anxiety among parents, who experience a kind of internal conflict: they want to care for their child and dedicate their full attention to them, but at the same time, they have professional obligations and fear losing their job or income. Single parents face especially challenging situations.

Hospital Facilities – Parent Rooms: Parents expect a calm, private space in the hospital where they can stay with their child. This is also beneficial for hospital staff, as the child is calmer with a parent present, and the treatment process goes more smoothly.

1. Support in Preparing the Child for Hospitalization

Parents express a need for support in preparing for hospitalization (beyond conversations with nurses/doctors). An important aspect of support is preparing the child for their hospital stay. Educational materials (e.g., short videos, books) that parents can view with their children could help reduce the child’s anxiety about hospitalization. These materials could show what the child can expect – such as daily procedures, what the staff does, and what their hospital room looks like. Understanding their surroundings can help the child better adapt to the new environment.

Justyna Siemionow
Associate professor, University of Gdansk, Poland

Programme Manual Online

Choose