4.7.1 Mothers’ experiences and perceptions of information and support needs following their child's diagnosis of epilepsy (426)

Ann Cummins, Lecturer Practitioner, Catherine McAuley School of Nursing & Midwifery, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland a.cummins@ucc.ie

Abstract:

Background:

Research on childhood epilepsy suggests that a diagnosis of epilepsy is a challenge for both children and parents. Children with epilepsy and their parents are faced with a multitude of medical, developmental, social and emotional issues that can place additional demands on the rearing of children requiring comprehensive, continuing health care. Only a select number of studies internationally have examined parents’ requirements for information and support following their child's diagnosis of epilepsy. This study took place in 2006-2007 as partial fulfilment for MSc in Nursing.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of mothers of a child with epilepsy with specific emphasis on their informational and support needs.

Methodology:

A qualitative research utilizing a phenomenological hermeneutic methodological approach provided an invaluable opportunity to gain an understanding and appreciation of the lived experiences and perceptions of mothers' needs for information and support following their child's diagnosis of epilepsy. Six mothers were interviewed using semi-structured interviews.

Analysis:

Colaizzi's (1978) data analysis six procedural steps was utilised in this research study which permitted understanding of the phenomenon under investigation and facilitated participants with the opportunity to validate the credibility of the findings.

Findings:

The findings in this study revealed that mothers have a real need for information and support to enable them to care for their child with epilepsy, their information and support needs are overall, currently not being met.

Conclusion:

This study provides valuable qualitative information concerning the gap in provision of information and support needs specific to children with epilepsy and their parents. Their information and support needs are detailed in this study. It is imperative that the specific needs of the child with epilepsy and their family are identified and met to ensure this ideal is espoused.

Biography:

Ann Cummins, Registered General Nurse, Registered Children's Nurse, BSc Nursing (University College Cork), Diploma in Integrated Computer Applications and MSc in Nursing (Clinical Practice) University College Dublin 2005-2007. Thesis submitted on 12th September 2007. Clinical Experience: Ten years experience as Staff Nurse, CNM1 and CNM2 in Paediatrics in the Mercy University Hospital, Cork. Four years as Clinical Placement Co-ordinator in the Mercy University Hospital, Cork. Current Position: Lecturer Practitioner, Catherine McAuley School of Nursing & Midwifery, Brookfield Health Science Complex, University College Cork.