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Perspectives on paediatric sleep-disordered breathing in the UK: a qualitative study
C Haighton1, R M Watson1, J A Wilson2
1Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Insights
Understanding treatment for paediatric sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in the UK is limited. This study highlights diagnostic challenges and the need for clear management guidelines to improve child well-being.
Area of Science:
- Paediatric Sleep Medicine
- Respiratory Health
- Healthcare Pathways
Background:
- Limited understanding exists regarding current treatment pathways for paediatric sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).
- Parental and child well-being are significantly impacted by SDB, necessitating improved care strategies.
- Existing UK healthcare pathways for SDB require exploration to identify areas for enhancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore current UK treatment pathways for paediatric sleep-disordered breathing.
- To identify key factors contributing to the well-being of children and their parents affected by SDB.
- To inform the development of better diagnostic and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interviews were conducted with 22 parents of children aged 2-9 years with SDB symptoms.
- Interviews included 5 general practitioners and 6 hospital doctors involved in the referral and treatment process.
- Data were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, anonymised, and thematically analysed.
Main Results:
- General practitioners infrequently identify SDB, while hospital doctors often uncover unsuspected cases.
- Parents express significant anxiety about their child's breathing, but referral and diagnostic routes are complex.
- Adenotonsillectomy is the primary treatment; patient weight is a noted concern for clinicians. Enhanced diagnostic technology is beneficial.
Conclusions:
- Clear guidelines are needed for the management of paediatric sleep-disordered breathing.
- Improved diagnostic pathways and accessible information are crucial for effective SDB care.
- Addressing parental concerns and streamlining referrals can enhance child well-being.
Objective:
There is limited understanding of treatment pathways for paediatric sleep-disordered breathing. This study explored current UK pathways and what is important to well-being for parents and children.
Method:
The study comprised in-depth qualitative interviews (n = 22) with parents of children (2-9 years) with symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing referred to a regional ENT clinic (n = 11), general practitioners who might refer these children to ENT (n = 5) and hospital doctors involved in treating these children (n = 6). Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, anonymised and analysed thematically.
Results:
General practitioners rarely identify seeing children with sleep-disordered breathing; conversely hospital doctors identify unsuspected issues. Parents are worried their child will stop breathing, but routes to referral and diagnosis are not straightforward. Modern technology can aid investigation and diagnosis. Patient weight is an issue for general practitioners and hospital doctors. Adenotonsillectomy is the treatment of choice, and information on paediatric sleep-disordered breathing is needed.
Conclusion:
Guidelines for the management of paediatric sleep-disordered breathing are needed.
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