PARENTAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE CHILDREN WITH CANCER RECEIVING CHEMOTHERAPY

Attharos T; Chaiyaratana C; Lapvongwattana P

Attharos T College of Nursing and Health, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand
Chaiyaratana C Department of Pediatric Nursing, Srisavarindhira Thai Red Cross Institute of Nursing, Bangkok, Thailand,
Lapvongwattana P Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

Keywords: Children with cancer, Chemotherapy, Parents, Perspective

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to study the parents’ perspectives on the children with cancer receiving chemotherapy. The research participants comprised parents of the children with cancer receiving chemotherapy. Data were collected through in-depth interviews in a closed meeting room and analyzed by content analysis. The major findings were as follows: chemotherapy had benefit for their children with cancer, need for being nearby, choice of diet and activity, relief of chemotherapy side effects and hope for their children wellbeing. The findings could help healthcare providers understand the parents’ perspectives and could be used to develop family-centered care for the families of the children with cancer.