The paediatric journey to and through the emergency
department: the parent’s experience

Berry, RJ

Abstract

Parenthood will inevitably include caring for a child suffering from a mild to moderate illness requiring access to health care. Most childhood illnesses can be managed in the community, and a variety of primary care services are available with patients being encouraged to attend the one most suitable for their needs. Yet the number of children visiting the emergency department with non-urgent illness continues to rise annually, with paediatric attendance representing over 25% of the total workload.

This study investigated why parents chose to bring their child to the emergency department and explored the journey through parents experiences when making this decision. The research question was ‘What are the concerns, expectations and experiences of parents who choose to bring their child to the emergency department with mild or moderate acute illness?’

Parents of children aged 0-16 years presenting with non-urgent conditions were approached over an 18-month period to participate. Prior to discharge, focused interviews were used to explore the antecedent decision-making factors leading up to attendance and parents experience of urgent care were explored.

Parents often experience complex journeys prior to attending the emergency department following multiple health care contacts and referrals from other providers. The findings challenge assumptions that have led to the criticism of parents for overuse of the health service and, instead, highlight the culpability of health care professionals and health systems in generating increased demand for urgent care.

For most parents, attending the emergency department was a considered decision. Interaction with professionals had a significant effect on their experience. Health care professionals were powerful agents controlling resources and knowledge, but they were influenced by pressures and targets within the health service. The NHS is a complicated system that parents tried to navigate, but they were thwarted by its complexity and conflicting messages. When their child was unwell parents wanted a service that was simple to access, and that would offer a standard of care that would reassure and empower them to continue to care for their child.

Citation

department: the parent’s experience. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Feb 2, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 2, 2023
• Award Date: Jun 30, 2022