Helping Parents Cope With the Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Defect: An Experimental Study

Abstract

An experimental study was designed to help parents cope with the implications of the diagnosis of congenital heart disease. Intervention strategies involving clarification of medical information, discussion of psychological issues, and a combination of the two, were more effective than no intervention in helping parents to gain an accurate understanding of the diagnosis and other medical information. Regardless of the intervention strategy used, satisfaction was generally high, and parent anxiety did not appear to fluctuate during the course of the visit. The team approach was recommended for use in pediatric specialty clinics where time is often short, and more personal interaction may be needed.