A qualitative interpretive study exploring parents’ perception of the parental role in the paediatric intensive care unit

SummaryObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to explore parents’ perception of the parental role in a tertiary care Canadian university affiliated hospital's paediatric intensive care unit (PICU).Research methodologyA descriptive interpretive design was used with a purposive heterogeneous sample to reflect the range of children and parents normally admitted to the PICU. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven parents. Interview data were collected and analysed using the constant comparative method.FindingsThree main themes emerged: (1) being present and participating in the child's care; (2) forming a partnership of trust with the PICU health care team; and (3) being informed of the child's progress and treatment plan as the person who “knows” the child best.ConclusionEnhanced understanding of the parental role in the PICU from the perspective of parents can help guide the development of strategies to more effectively support parents and promote parenting during this extremely stressful time.