Nurses’ Perspectives Regarding Caring for Children with Neuro-developmental Disorders
Aruna Gnanapragasam, Manoranjitham SathiyaseelanAbstract
Background:
Children with neuro-developmental disorders (NDDs) are more vulnerable than children with physical problems due to complex and diverse needs. Caring for children with NDD may be challenging for nurses as they are the front-line workers in the healthcare system, spending most of their time in patient care.
Methodology:
A descriptive qualitative study was conducted to explore the perspectives of nurses who care for children with NDD. Ten participants’ opinions were elicited through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire.
Results:
All the nurses were female (100%), and most of them (80%) had diploma-level education. The average age of the nurses was 34.4 years. The categories generated from the data were improved level of knowledge and skills, job satisfaction, belief system, support for parents in distress and facing challenges. Despite their educational preparation, nurses felt unprepared to care for children with NDD. Managing children with violent behaviour and seizures at night with low staffing levels was considered challenging.
Discussion:
This study emphasises the importance of adequate preparation of nurses before graduation or adequate on-the-job training to strengthen their skills. Novice nurses may benefit from a training module to learn the facets of nursing care at the workplace. The nursing curricula should focus on closing the gap between the expected clinical competencies and educational preparation.
Conclusion:
Hospitalisation can be an overwhelming experience for children with NDD and their families, requiring compassionate and quality nursing care; this can only be achieved through adequate training.