A Qualitative Study on Unmet Family Needs Related to Healthcare Service during a Child's Hospitalization for Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Background: Limited domestic study investigated the problem regarding unmet family needs pertaining to healthcare service during a cancer child's hospitalization for cancer treatment. The population of families with children hospitalized in pediatric oncology units is a considerable target group demanding special attention. Investigating unmet family needs related to healthcare service during a cancer child's hospitalization may provide insight into improving family care in pediatric oncology units. Objective: This study aimed to explore unmet family needs pertaining to healthcare service perceived by parents during a child's hospitalization for cancer treatment. Methods: Qualitative interviews were carried out with six fathers and fifteen mothers purposely sampled from pediatric oncology departments in Mainland China from September 2013 to March 2014. Audio-taped interviews were transcribed verbatim, and data in transcripts were coded and analyzed by qualitative content analysis. Results: Five categories depicts unmet family needs pertaining to healthcare service during a cancer child's hospitalization were identified: a warm and supportive attitude, professional support, adequate information, a comfortable environment and catering support. Conclusion: The findings from this study reinforce that more work need to be done in clinical settings to satisfy unmet family needs. It is the hope and expectation that healthcare professionals can act to enable the family to have a healthy adjustment by fulfilling unmet family needs.