Perceptions of Gastrostomy Buttons Among Caregivers of Children With Special Health Care Needs

Abstract

IntroductionChildren with special health care needs (CSHCN) have chronic conditions that generally are classified as developmental disabilities. Children with developmental disabilities are at high risk of malnutrition. Gastrostomy buttons are frequently used to provide enteral nutrition for children with developmental disabilities. ObjectiveThis study aimed to understand caregivers’ perceptions regarding gastrostomy button placement for CSHCN. MethodsCaregivers (N = 257) were recruited from CSHCN peer support groups to complete an online survey regarding perceptions of gastrostomy button placement. Kolmogorov–Smirnov testing found that results were not normally distributed. Nonparametric testing with Spearman rank correlation was used to determine the relationship between Overall Satisfaction With Choice and all other perception variables. ResultsThe findings suggested overall satisfaction and willingness to accept gastrostomy button placement earlier. ConclusionGastrostomy button placement has diverse effects for children with developmental disabilities and their families. Health care professionals must be knowledgeable about the positive and negative outcomes to effectively educate families as they consider gastrostomy placement.