Exploring families’ transition into a pediatric hospice: Part 2
Date: 2008 In Press
Author(s): Steele, R., Derman, S., Cadell, S., Davies, B., Siden, H., & Straatman, L.
Journal: International Journal of Palliative Nursing
The results from a pilot study are reported in this article, part two of a two-part paper. The experiences of parents (six mothers and two fathers) are described as their families transitioned to the Canuck Place Children’s Hospice (CPCH) in Canada. The perspectives of non-hospice health care professionals (n=4) involved in the child’s care are explored. Data were gathered through audio-taped, semi-structured interviews. Initially parents and health care professionals were unaware that the hospice provided more than just end of life services. Parents began to consider hospice care when something changed their lives that forced them to see things differently. This became the impetus for recognizing that CPCH might be a resource for their family. The prospect of respite care was usually the deciding factor in applying to the hospice. Parents reported benefits of hospice respite for themselves and their whole family. Recommendations for practice and future research are offered, including discussion about the feasibility of the study procedures.
