Caregiving Practices Research Articles

Fathering Promotes Child Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Through Specific “Active Ingredient” Caregiving Activities

SYNOPSIS Objective. We do not know which specific paternal caregiving practices are associated with more advanced child development in understudied low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The current investigation attempts to identify such caregiving practices. Design. Maternal reports of six specific paternal caregiving practices which may be uniquely associated with early childhood development were examined in a sample of 159,959 families with 3- to 4-year-old children from 51 LMICs. Both father caregiving practices and early childhood development scores were quantified using measures from UNICEF’s Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys. Linear regression models examined which paternal caregiving practices were associated with early childhood development after controlling for the contributions of mothers and children’s other caregivers engaging in the same practices as well as father residence in the home and multiple aspects of the physical home environment and national context. Results. When fathers read to their children, named/counted/drew with their children, or sang to their children, their children demonstrated more advanced overall development. When fathers read, named/counted/drew, and told stories to their children, their children also demonstrated more advanced development in literacy/numeracy and approaches to learning. Some effects depended on whether fathers resided in the home. Fathers naming/counting/drawing with their children was associated with more advanced child development in approaches to learning, and fathers reading to their children was associated with more advanced child socioemotional development only if fathers resided in the child’s home. Conclusions. Fathers reading to their children, naming/counting/drawing with their children, and singing to their children appear to be specific “active ingredients” that promote child development in LMICs. Some of these ingredients only actively promote child development when fathers reside in the child’s home environment. These practices should be supported and encouraged in policy and practice. Fathers’ caregiving matters for child development across a wide swath of LMICs in the world.

Evaluating Educational Patterns and Methods in Infant Sleep Care: Trends, Effectiveness, and Impact in Home Settings—A Systematic Review

Background: Sleep care is crucial for the health and development of infants, with proper sleep patterns reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related incidents. Educational interventions targeting caregivers are essential in promoting safe sleep practices. Methods: This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, searching databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria focused on studies involving home-based interventions for infants aged 0–12 months, including parental education and behavioral interventions. Exclusion criteria included studies in clinical settings and non-peer-reviewed articles. Data extraction and synthesis were performed by two independent reviewers, using a narrative approach to categorize interventions and outcomes. Results: Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Key findings indicate that home-based educational interventions, including hospital-based programs, home visits, and mobile health technologies, significantly improve parental knowledge and adherence to safe sleep practices. These interventions also enhance parental satisfaction and contribute positively to infant health outcomes. Conclusions: Educational interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in promoting safe sleep practices among caregivers, particularly in home settings. These interventions, including hospital-based programs, home visits, and digital tools, improve parental knowledge, adherence to guidelines, and overall satisfaction. The impact is evident in the reduction of unsafe sleep behaviors and enhanced infant health outcomes. However, variability in the intervention methods and delivery, cultural contexts, and geographic focus suggest a need for more tailored, long-term, and comprehensive studies. Future research should standardize outcome measures and assess the sustained impact of these educational strategies on infant sleep patterns and caregiver practices over time. This will provide deeper insights into the trends and long-term effectiveness of educational patterns and methods in diverse home environments.

Fathers' engagement in a parenting program primarily intended for female caregivers: An early qualitative process evaluation in Western Kenya.

Parenting programs predominantly target one caregiver of the child or most commonly the child's mother. However, fathers are also important caregivers whose engagement in interventions can benefit child health, nutrition, and development. In August 2023, a qualitative process evaluation was conducted during the first quarter of implementation to assess initial fidelity, quality, and outcomes of a parenting program in rural Western Kenya. In-depth interviews were conducted with female and male caregivers along with in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with program delivery agents. This secondary analysis specifically focused on stakeholders' perceptions of father involvement in the program and aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to fathers' participation, initial program impacts when fathers were involved, and recommendations for increasing father inclusion. Thematic content analysis was conducted, and data were triangulated across stakeholder groups. Overall, relatively few fathers participated in the program. Nevertheless, for the rare cases of participating fathers, stakeholders highlighted positive changes in fathers' caregiving attitudes and practices. Key barriers to fathers' program engagement included restrictive gender norms and perceived opportunity costs. Stakeholders suggested several strategies for better reaching fathers, including providing financial incentives and flexible scheduling of sessions. Overall, we found that fathers' participation and program experiences were starkly different from those of mothers. Gender-responsive program adaptations and father-targeted implementation strategies are likely to increase the fathers' engagement in parenting programs, which in turn may facilitate greater program impacts on family caregiving and child outcomes. Future evaluations of parenting programs should combine qualitative and quantitative approaches to more comprehensively assess program impacts on fathers and over time.

Parent-Child Communication Dynamics in Muhammadiyah Pagesangan Orphanage

Background: Effective communication is essential for nurturing children's moral development, particularly in orphanages. Specific Background: This qualitative study investigates communication dynamics between four caregivers and 19 children at the Muhammadiyah Pagesangan Orphanage in Surabaya. Knowledge Gap: Limited research exists on communication methods used in orphanages, especially for children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Aims: The study aims to analyze communication patterns in moral guidance within the orphanage. Results: Findings indicate that children employ both primary and secondary communication methods to connect with distant parents, facing challenges such as limited phone access and socio-economic barriers. Novelty: This research highlights unique communication challenges in orphanages and proposes that effective communication fosters a nurturing environment. Implications: By promoting a loving communication atmosphere, caregivers can enhance children's emotional well-being and moral development, suggesting that communication is crucial for effective caregiving practices in orphanage settings. Highlights : Communication Patterns: Emphasizes the need for understanding how caregivers interact with children. Challenges: Identifies barriers faced by children in maintaining contact with parents. Nurturing Environment: Highlights the role of effective communication in promoting emotional well-being. Keywords: communication, orphanage, moral development, caregivers, qualitative research

Reasons for admission and rehabilitation rates of various wildlife species in Finland.

Wildlife rehabilitation is a common part of animal-protection work. In Finland wildlife care is usually based on volunteer work and no licensing or training is required. Wildlife casualties are also treated professionally in some contexts such as zoos. The species of wildlife casualties may influence treatment decisions. Our anonymous online survey examined wildlife caregiving practices in Finland (n = 78), focusing on the care provided to various animal species and the outcomes of rehabilitation efforts. The survey was sent to both veterinarians and volunteers caring for wildlife, and it was part of a larger survey. Questions were mainly closed, and opinion-related questions were applied on a Likert scale (1-7; where 1 meant strongly disagree and 7 meant strongly agree). Most respondents primarily cared for mammals and birds. Reptiles, amphibians, and fish received less attention. Injuries and overwinter survival, especially in the case of hedgehogs, were the primary reasons for wildlife admissions. The training background of the rehabilitators varied and was related to the animal species being treated. Those caring mainly for hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) were the least likely to have animal-related training or long-term experience in wildlife care. We show a notably high rehabilitation rate of approximately 80% of commonly treated species, significantly surpassing figures from other countries, which raises concerns that animals are admitted or released on too light grounds, leading to animal welfare problems. It is also noteworthy that only one-fifth of respondents said they kept records of animal admissions. Less than 40% of respondents emphasized the need for further education on any specific issue, which may indicate overestimation of personal skills. In conclusion, our study raises concerns regarding the ethics and potential harm associated with wildlife rehabilitation.

Mothers’, Fathers’, and Children’s Other Caregivers’ Socioemotional Caregiving Practices and Early Childhood Development in 51 Low- and Middle-Income Countries

This study examined children’s mothers’, fathers’ and other caregivers’ socioemotional parenting practices in 159,959 families with 3- to 4-year-olds from 51 low-and-middle income countries. Mothers engaged in the most socioemotional caregiving practices, followed by other caregivers and then fathers. The more socioemotional caregiving practices mothers engaged in, the more fathers engaged in, but the fewer other caregivers engaged in. The higher the level of national development, the more likely it is that mothers and fathers, but the less likely it is that other caregivers, engaged in socioemotional caregiving practices. Nations with mothers who engaged in more socioemotional caregiving practices had children who demonstrated more advanced development. At the within-country level, the more that all three caregivers engaged in socioemotional caregiving practices, the greater was children’s development.

Caregiving experiences and practices: qualitative formative research towards development of integrated early childhood development interventions targeting Kenyans and refugees in Nairobi’s informal settlements

BackgroundEvidence is needed to understand factors that influence child development and caregiving experiences, especially in marginalized contexts, to inform the development and implementation of early childhood development (ECD) interventions. This study explores caregiving practices for young children in an urban informal settlement with Kenyans and embedded refugees, and identifies factors shaping these caregiving experiences, to inform the design and development of potentially appropriate ECD interventions.MethodsA qualitative formative study, which included 14 focus group discussions (n = 125 participants), and 13 key informant interviews was conducted between August and October 2018. Purposive sampling approaches were used to select a diverse range of respondents including caregivers of children below three years of age and stakeholders of Kenyan nationality and refugees. Data were analysed using a thematic approach and the Nurturing Care Framework was used as an interpretative lens.ResultsThere was a fusion of traditional, religious and modern practices in the care for young children, influenced by the caregivers’ culture, and financial disposition. There were mixed views/practices on nutrition for young children. For example, while there was recognition of the value for breastfeeding, working mothers, especially in the informal economy, found it a difficult practice. Stimulation through play was common, especially for older children, but gaps were identified in aspects such as reading, and storytelling in the home environment. Some barriers identified included the limited availability of a caregiver, insecurity, and confined space in the informal settlement, all of which made it difficult for children to engage in play activities. Physical and psychological forms of discipline were commonly mentioned, although few caregivers practiced and recognized the need for using non-violent approaches. Some overarching challenges for caregivers were unemployment or unstable sources of income, and, particularly for refugee caregivers, their legal status.ConclusionThese findings point to the interplay of various factors affecting optimal caregiving for young children in an urban informal settlement with Kenyans and refugees. Integrated ECD interventions are needed for such a mixed population, especially those that strive to anchor along caregivers’ social support system, co-designed together with community stakeholders, that ideally focus on parent skills training promoting nurturing care and economic empowerment.

Intergenerational Care and Subjective Well-being: A Study of the Particularities of Ageing Amongst the Indigenous Peoples of Chile

Abstract This empirical study explores intergenerational caregiving and subjective well-being amongst older adults in Indigenous communities in rural Chile. Facing substantial social and economic challenges, these communities depend heavily on cultural traditions and family support systems. Data were collected from 1,348 older adults, aged sixty and above, using surveys to assess caregiving practices, intergenerational support and subjective well-being, measured by the Personal Wellbeing Index and the Perceived Social Support Questionnaire. Findings reveal that caregiving is deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts, with positive aspects such as increased satisfaction and social connectedness, and negative aspects including stress and social isolation. Women predominantly assume caregiving roles, maintaining cultural traditions and supporting family well-being. Notable differences in intergenerational support and subjective well-being were observed based on ethnic group and gender. The implications for social work practice are insightful. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive social work policies and inclusive strategies that address the well-being of older adults in these communities. Social workers and policymakers must consider cultural nuances and the unique needs of Indigenous populations, taking into account cultural identity, economic conditions and acculturation to develop effective support programmes.

Measuring Food Insecurity in Children under 5 Years of Age with Acute Undernutrition in Valle Del Cauca-Colombia.

Our objective was to assess food insecurity among children under 5 years old with moderate, and severe malnutrition from Valle del Cauca, a state located in the southwestern region of Colombia. A descriptive observational study was conducted, including children whose weight-for-height (W/H) indicator was below 2 SD, as recorded on the World Health Organization (WHO) growth charts, or who exhibited severe malnutrition phenotypes such as marasmus or Kwashiorkor. Family and child food security were evaluated using the Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale (ELCSA). 58.6% of households with acutely malnourished children experienced food insecurity. A statistically significant relationship was found between food insecurity and children of Afro-Colombian and Indigenous descent. According to caregivers' perceptions, 30.2% of child malnutrition cases were related to poor feeding and caregiving practices. Not all children with acute malnutrition suffer from food insecurity. Therefore, the findings of this research suggest that governmental efforts should focus not only on ensuring food availability, but also on educating caregivers about the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to the specific characteristics of each region and promoting appropriate caregiving practices.

“Virtual Mothering”: A Study of Mothering Practices of Trinidad and Tobago Mothers Stranded Abroad After COVID-19 Border Closures

The COVID-19 pandemic presented threats to the welfare of children and families due to spatial distancing measures, disruption of employment, virtual learning, changes in caregiving, and social isolation. Many studies highlighted the impact of the pandemic on the caregiving practices of mothers. However, little is known about the experiences of mothers who were separated from their children because of COVID-19 border closures. This study used a qualitative methodology to explore the lived experiences of five Trinidad and Tobago mothers stranded abroad and shows the ways in which the COVID-19 border closures altered their caregiving practices with children left behind. Findings show that mothers stranded abroad encountered several challenges in negotiating the physical distance away from their children and the ways that stranded mothers developed digital transnational mothering practices to alleviate the tensions of spatial separation from their children. Although borders have since re-opened, this article argues that the impact of separation between mothers and their children may have lasting effects. The study provides family support professionals and policymakers with an understanding of the experiences of mothers abroad and the need to lend specialized support to this vulnerable group.

Improving Hypertension Outcomes: Assessing Caregivers’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practices in Rural Malawi

Introduction: Hypertension is a major global health issue, significantly contributing to the burden of cardiovascular diseases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Malawi. Caregivers play a crucial role in managing hypertension in these settings, yet their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) are not well-documented. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of caregivers for hypertensive patients in rural Malawi, as well as to identify any disparities in these areas. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to February 2024 at Lisungwi Community Hospital and Neno District Hospital in Neno, Malawi. A total of 422 caregivers were conveniently sampled, with 248 from Lisungwi and 174 from Neno. Data were collected using a validated pre-tested questionnaire, assessing KAP on hypertension. Descriptive, one-way ANOVA and linear regression statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: In both Lisungwi and Neno hospitals, the majority of participants were female, accounting for 63.7% and 62.6%, respectively. The mean age of participants was 44.7 years (± 10.3) in Lisungwi and 45.3 years (± 9.3) in Neno, with average care durations of 4.1 years (± 3.3) and 4.2 years (± 3.2). Notably, 94.4% of caregivers at Lisungwi and 94.3% at Neno exhibited poor knowledge of hypertension; however, all caregivers maintained a positive attitude toward its prevention and management. Significant differences in practice scores were observed (p < 0.001), with caregivers in Lisungwi performing better. Additionally, factors such as education, age, and occupation influenced Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) scores, while gender impacted practices alone. Conclusions: The findings of poor knowledge highlight the urgent need for enhanced educational interventions, gender-specific support, community engagement, and a context-specific approach to improve the knowledge and practices of caregivers, which are critical for effective hypertension prevention and management in rural setting.

“Our Children Are Dead”: Past and Anticipated Adversity Shaping Caregiving and Cultural Reproduction among Banyamulenge Refugee Families in Rwanda

It is well known that experiences of extreme adversity strongly impact caregiving and family dynamics. In this study, we explore how caregiving is shaped by experiences of war and displacement among a community experiencing protracted, ongoing conflict and displacement, namely, Congolese Banyamulenge refugee families in Rwanda. The findings are based on six months of ethnographic team research with Banyamulenge refugee families living in semi-urban southern Rwanda. Among the caregivers, including people who arrived several years ago and others who have lived in Rwanda for over two decades, we found a strong longing for home and past cattle-herding life. We also found that caregivers emphasized the transmission of “survival tactics” as well as Banyamulenge identity and culture. We argue that these caregiving objectives and practices speak to the community’s experiences of material and existential losses in the past, as well as those anticipated in the unknown future. Second, parental caregiving efforts appear to lead to increased intergenerational dissonance, with children wishing to integrate into their host community. While this finding appears in line with much of the migration literature about intergenerational family relationships and conflict, we find that children’s orientation is not only informed by the host environment but also stems from a desire to relieve their parents’ suffering from loss and help them invest in more optimistic futures. Finally, while our findings suggest profound changes in social and cultural reproduction in the long term, we argue for caution, as ongoing changes in war dynamics in DR Congo may inform shifts in ideas on belonging among the children. The findings provide new insights for understanding how caregiving may be affected by war and displacement while effecting change in war-affected, displaced communities.

Development and psychometric evaluation of the self-care of informal caregivers inventory

BackgroundIn recent years, a growing body of literature on informal caregivers’ health and well-being has emerged, highlighting the need for a tool to measure their self-care practices. ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to develop a theory-based instrument measuring the self-care behaviors of informal caregivers and test its psychometric properties. DesignThe initial phase of instrument development entailed a detailed, six-step process (conceptualization, theoretical adaptation, back-translation and cultural adaptation, cognitive interviewing, item enhancement, and content validity), followed by formal psychometric testing (participant engagement, validity, internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability). SettingStudy conducted at a hospital located in Tehran, Iran. ParticipantsA sample of 234 informal caregivers of cancer outpatients receiving treatment in oncology wards was enrolled. Caregivers had to be 18 years or older, recognized as the primary caregiver by the patient, and willing to provide informed consent. MethodsThe Self-Care of Informal Caregivers Inventory items comprise three dimensions: self-care maintenance (11 items), self-care monitoring (7 items), and self-care management (9 items), which achieved a content validity index rating of 100 % in a panel of experts. Data were collected from caregivers during routine clinic visits. Construct validity was verified through exploratory structural equation modelling and reliability was verified using Cronbach's α and multidimensional model-based reliability. Test-retest reliability was evaluated using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient. ResultsAll three dimensions showed good model fit indices (self-care maintenance: Comparative Fit Index = 1.00, Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.99, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.044; self-care monitoring: Comparative Fit Index = 1.00, Tucker-Lewis Index = 1.00, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.027; self-care management: Comparative Fit Index = 0.99, Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.99, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.048) and Cronbach's α of 0.88, 0.88, and 0.91, respectively. The overall multidimensional model-based reliability was 0.93. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient values for the three dimensions were 0.94, 0.60, and 0.51, respectively. ConclusionPreliminary testing provides support for use of the Self-Care of Informal Caregivers Inventory in research. Using this theory-based instrument to assess the self-care practices of informal caregivers can assist in identifying topics to discuss and opportunities for guidance. Tweetable AbstractThe Self-Care of Informal Caregivers Inventory: A validated tool for informal caregivers is useful for research. #Informalcaregivers #SelfCare

Virtual histology based on 3D X-ray microscopy imaging for non-destructive age-at-death estimation of incinerated teeth from the Tophet of Motya (Sicily, 6th century BC)

The reconstruction of infant biological history and mortality profiles provides biocultural insights into adulthood morbidity, maternal health, parental caregiving practices, and social dynamics. However, interpreting biological data from cremated infant remains in archaeological contexts can be challenging due to their often poor preservation and potential biases. Tophets, sanctuaries for distinct burial of cremated infant remains present in several Phoenician-Punic colonies in the Mediterranean area, offer an ideal case study. This study presents the first virtual histology performed in X-ray Microscopy-based imaging (XRM) on a sample of crowns of cremated deciduous teeth from the Tophet of Motya (Sicily, 6th century BC). The observation of the Neonatal Line (NL) in enamel tissue offers important informations on the community demographic profile, age-at-death classes and life-histories of the buried individuals. Results are consistent with previous studies on other human remains found in the main Tophets in Mediterranean basin and highlight the importance of using non-invasive techniques to collect and analyse data that are useful for the interpretation of newborns and infants burial practices.

Effects of early intervention on the mental wellbeing and caregiving practices of preterm infant caregivers

BackgroundThe rising incidence of preterm births worldwide presents a pressing public health challenge, affecting both infants and their preterm caregivers. Early Intervention (EI) programs aim to mitigate the negative impacts associated with preterm births on the physical, cognitive, and psychological health of both infants and their caregivers by providing personalized parental support and developmental monitoring. This study addressed the gap in research evaluating the long-term effects of community-based EI programs on the holistic coping mechanisms of families, encompassing mental wellbeing, caregiving competencies, and the transition process from hospital to home care. MethodsThis study evaluated the long-term effects of a community-based EI program (in-home only) and the added benefits of earlier Hospital-to-Home (H2H) support, focusing on preterm caregivers' mental wellbeing and caregiving practices. ResultsThe findings highlight the extended benefits of EI, demonstrating that program duration and intensity significantly benefit families dealing with neonatal intensive care unit stays. For infants requiring extensive medical intervention, EI support markedly enhances caregiver mental wellbeing. Additionally, interventions initiated earlier yield a more substantial positive effect on preterm caregivers' mental wellbeing after discharge compared to those that commence later. ConclusionThese findings suggest the potential role of community-based EI programs and the benefits of supporting preterm caregivers before transitioning home. The study calls for future research to explore the effects of various EI program components to identify which interventions are most effective for addressing preterm infants' specific developmental challenges.

The Effect of Simulation-Based Training on the Hand Hygiene Knowledge and Practices of Palliative Caregivers:A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Single-Center Study.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of simulation-based training on hand hygiene knowledge and practices among palliative caregivers. The study was conducted with 60 caregivers in a palliative care clinic between December 2022 and September 2023. The participants were divided into two groups by simple randomization. The intervention and control groups received the same hand hygiene theoretical education and demonstration. The intervention group also received additional simulation-based hand hygiene practices recommended by the World Health Organization. A pretest-posttest design was used to assess hand hygiene knowledge and practices. Data were collected with personal information, hand hygiene knowledge, and hand hygiene practice forms. Analysis of covariance was performed to compare posttest scores between the groups. Simulation-based hand hygiene training programs offer an effective and feasible strategy to improve the hand hygiene knowledge and practices of caregivers. It should be integrated into clinical areas to increase palliative caregivers' hand hygiene knowledge and practices. Evidence-based practices can be improved by increasing randomized controlled studies on the effectiveness of simulation-based hand hygiene training for caregivers. Trial Registration: The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with registration number NCT05848596.

Cognitive status, psychological state and needs of caregivers for elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries: a qualitative study.

Aims/Background Pressure injury stands as a global healthcare concern, primarily affecting elderly individuals. As the ageing of the global population shows no signs of slowing down, both society and the families of the affected individuals continue to bear the brunt of the consequences of pressure injuries. The majority of pressure injury cases are managed at home, and the occurrence and progression of pressure injuries in the elderly are closely associated with informal caregivers. This study aims to qualitatively explore the cognitive status of caregivers for elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries, as well as their psychological state and needs during the caregiving process. Methods This research is qualitative, descriptive, and phenomenological in nature. A purposive sampling method was used. Eighteen caregivers of elderly patients with pressure injuries were selected from Jiangnan University Medical Centre as interviewees from June 2023 to August 2023. Semi-structured interviews were utilised to collect data regarding the caregivers' cognition, psychological state, and care-related needs while caring for elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries. The data were then organised and analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis method and NVivo 11.0. Results Through the analysis of interview data from caregivers of elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries, three main themes and nine subthemes were identified. The data analysis also revealed that the caregivers surveyed lacked the crucial awareness of preventing pressure injuries and that their caregiving practices were not up to standards. During the caregiving process, they were challenged with substantial stress while also experiencing negative emotions such as anxiety or depression. They had a strong desire for persistent medical support to alleviate the psychological and emotional challenges. Conclusion The findings of this study establish a collaborative relationship network among the hospitals, family, medical staff, and caregivers in the management of pressure injuries, but with a special attention to the caregivers' needs for disease-related knowledge and psychophysical support. Such relationships streamline communication between medical staff, patients, and their caregivers, facilitating the adoption of active and correct methods by caregivers to prevent and care for pressure injuries. This can positively impact the quality of care for pressure injuries, further improving the life quality of patients and their caregivers, controlling the incidence of pressure injuries, and reducing readmission rates.

Exploring Social Support Experiences of Caregivers of Persons Living With Dementia in Hospice Care.

As the number of persons living with dementia (PLWD) enrolling in hospice care rises, caregiver support becomes increasingly crucial. While social support can help buffer caregiver stress, many caregivers report feeling isolated and having unmet needs, highlighting the limited research on this population. This qualitative descriptive study aimed to better understand caregivers' social support during the period when the PLWD is enrolled in hospice care. Analyzing qualitative data from 22 caregivers of PLWD using conventional content analysis, we identified the theme "Variations in Social Connections." This theme encompasses two subthemes: "never completely alone," indicating social support from family, friends, and neighbors, and "disappointed sometimes," reflecting instances when some individuals in the caregivers' lives couldn't provide regular support. These findings underscore the need for individualized interventions, as each caregiver experiences social support uniquely. Future research should consider the variations in social support among caregivers of PLWD to inform caregiving practices effectively.

Tudo começa no hospital: narrativas maternas sobre a hospitalização do bebê cronicamente adoecido

This study investigated mothers’ narratives about their chronically ill babies' hospitalization at a public maternity hospital in São Paulo, during 2022, based on thematic analysis of four semi-structured interviews. The main qualitative data from interviews were analyzed concerning its psychoanalytic contribution, organized by three central themes. Interviewed mothers seemed to have found possible ways to perform the maternal function and bond with their babies. Their experiences were affected by ambivalent feelings and psychic suffering that demands mental health care. The aim was to come closer to this reality, remarking original motherhood experiences and the importance of developing caregiving practices worried about the needs of parental figures and their babies in the context of hospitalization and illness.

Maternal knowledge on nutritional-focused nurturing care and associated factors among women with stunted children aged 6-23 months in Yogyakarta, Indonesia: A cross-sectional study.

Childhood stunting poses serious long-term risks to cognitive development, education, and adult productivity. While research has explored stunting's causes and effects, there is a lack of focus on maternal knowledge of nutrition-focused nurturing care for stunted children. This gap limits the ability to design effective interventions that target improved caregiving practices. This study aimed to assess maternal knowledge of nutrition-focused nurturing care and explore associated factors, including child gender, maternal age, education, income, and prior exposure to nurturing care information, among mothers of stunted children aged 6-23 months in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 73 mothers in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta. Data were collected from February to March 2024 using a validated self-assessment questionnaire covering four domains: responsive caregiving, early learning opportunities, safety and security, and supportive caregiver well-being. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and one-way ANOVA, were performed. Overall maternal knowledge of nurturing care was high, with a mean score of 25.15 (SD = 4.72). Factors significantly associated with higher knowledge included having male children (p = 0.017), being aged 30-34 years (p = 0.035), possessing higher education levels (p = 0.002), and prior exposure to nurturing care information (p <0.001). Family income significantly influenced knowledge in the domain of early learning opportunities (p = 0.006), though not in other areas. Maternal knowledge of nutrition-focused nurturing care was influenced by child gender, maternal age, education, income, and prior exposure to nurturing care information. These findings emphasize the importance of focused educational interventions in nursing practice to enhance maternal knowledge. Addressing these factors can help align nursing strategies better to support the healthy growth and development of children.