Fading Confidence: A Qualitative Exploration of Parents Experiences Caring for a Febrile Child.

Abstract

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES\nThe purpose of this study was to explore parents experiences with pediatric fever to understand their needs for information and support.\n\n\nBACKGROUND\nPediatric fever is a normal part of childhood and multiple episodes of fever are a common occurrence between infancy and adulthood. Despite this expectation, pediatric fever often sparks fear and anxiety amongst parents. Existing research has primarily focused on measuring parental deficits, so a more in-depth exploration is helpful to understand the complexities of caring for a febrile child.\n\n\nDESIGN\nQualitative descriptive study.\n\n\nMETHODS\nPurposive sampling of N\xa0=\xa015 parents from a pediatric emergency department presenting with a febrile child. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in-person or via telephone. Thematic analysis was used to understand the data in light of our research question. Reporting follows the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist.\n\n\nRESULTS\nWe found themes of, 1) parental confidence through caregiving tasks, 2) emergent feelings of inadequacy, 2a) referrals and limitations of community practice, 3) information needs, and 4) information sources. Whereas parents were initially confident accessing information, providing care, making decisions, and managing symptoms; new signs/symptoms sparked a change in parents emotions, coping, and behaviour. Parents routinely search for information about pediatric fever and value reliable, accessible resources.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nOur findings highlight parents strengths assessing fever and effectively managing symptoms. We are encouraged by the potential for these results to inform the development of empowering resources to help parents make child health decisions during pediatric fever.\n\n\nRELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE\nFindings provide an evidence base for researchers, clinicians, and policy-makers to improve care for pediatric patients and families. Parents want clear, reliable, and accessible information about decision-points associated with pediatric fever. Resources with an empowerment focus may help parents maintain a sense of control when caring for a febrile child.