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Hospital to home paediatric enteral nutrition--parents need support
Insights
Parents of children on home enteral nutrition (HEN) need improved support and education. A dedicated HEN team could enhance care coordination, reduce hospital readmissions, and improve outcomes for these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Healthcare Support Services
- Patient Education
Background:
- Home enteral nutrition (HEN) is crucial for children with specific medical needs.
- Current support systems for HEN families often fall short of parental expectations.
- Effective education and coordinated care are vital for successful home management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current provision of education and support for parents of children on HEN.
- To identify challenges faced by parents and carers managing HEN at home.
- To evaluate the adequacy of existing dietetic support services.
Main Methods:
- Survey distributed to parents and carers of children on HEN.
- Analysis of 39 responses regarding satisfaction with HEN services.
- Qualitative assessment of perceived needs and challenges.
Main Results:
- A significant majority of parents (83%) indicated a need for HEN service improvement.
- Most parents (74%) desired more structured follow-up care.
- Many parents (56%) preferred a single point of contact for HEN coordination and education.
- A notable percentage (18%) highlighted the need for enhanced healthcare professional (HCP) education.
Conclusions:
- Specialized pediatric HEN dietetic services within dedicated teams are recommended.
- These teams should provide comprehensive training, education, and post-discharge liaison.
- Implementing such services could improve care transitions, reduce hospital readmissions, and decrease healthcare costs.
Abstract:
This study assessed the provision of education and support to parents of children on home enteral nutrition (HEN), current dietetic support available and perceived challenges facing parents and carers. From the 39 responses (13%), 29 (83%, n = 35) parents suggested services for HEN need improvement. 29 (74%, n = 39) parents wanted more structured follow up and 22 (56%) would like one person to co-ordinate HEN, education and discharge. 7 parents (18%) reported a need for further education of health care professionals (HCP). Hospital dietitians were the most common HCPs reported to provide support to patients following discharge. Specialist paediatric HEN dietetic services working in a dedicated HEN team, who would provide accurate training and education and liaise with both parents and community care services post discharge should be in place. This would facilitate transfer to community care, reduce hospital re-admissions, outpatient department attendances and costs.
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