Related Experiment Videos
Life threatening illness and hospice care
A Stein1, G C Forrest, H Woolley
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|May 1, 1989
Summary
This study on a UK children's hospice found most families felt well-supported, but unmet needs and significant psychological distress persisted. Chronic illness impacts families substantially, requiring ongoing support beyond symptom management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Palliative Care
- Family Support Services
- Childhood Illness Impact
Background:
- Children's hospices provide specialized care for terminally ill children.
- Understanding family perceptions and the holistic impact of chronic illness is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate family perceptions of care at the UK's first children's hospice.
- To assess the psychological and practical impact of chronic, life-threatening illness on families.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Involved 25 families and 26 children from a UK children's hospice.
- Examined family-reported experiences and needs.
Main Results:
- 72% of families reported feeling well-supported and valued the hospice atmosphere.
- Significant psychological distress was observed in parents, children, and siblings.
- Unmet needs included childcare, and financial/employment difficulties were common.
Conclusions:
- Hospice care is largely perceived positively, but specific needs require attention.
- Chronic life-threatening illness has a profound, wide-ranging impact on the entire family unit.
- Further support services addressing practical and psychological needs are essential for families.