[Perceptions of parents and nurses on needs of hospitalized children's parents]

ABSTRACT

Due to the fact that family centered care have a crucial role in pediatric nursing, it seems compatibility of nurses' and parents' perception about parents' needs can lead to deliver higher quality care. The aim of this study was to compare parents' and nurses' perceptions about needs of hospitalized children's parents. This is a cross-sectional survey. One hundred and fifty parents and 80 nurses were selected using convenient sampling method. Data was gathered using Kristjansdottir's "parental needs of hospitalized children" questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical [Chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U tests] methods. Research findings showed that there was significant difference between both parents' and nurses' perceptions about parents' needs [P=0.012]. Both groups believed that parents' needs are met partially in hospitals. There was not meaningful difference between the parents' and nurses' perceptions concerning meeting parental needs [P = 0.666]. Based on their perceptions, understanding of parents' needs help them to meet their requirements in health care facilities. There was a significant difference between parents' and nurses' perceptions regarding parents' need [P = 0.018]. Parents and nurses recognized all of the parents' needs to be important; there were also deficits in meeting these needs. Therefore, parents' cooperation with health care team is necessary to facilitate the recovery of sick children as well as meeting parents' needs