Enhancing Parent-Child Communication in Pediatric Nursing: Effective Strategies

Abstract

Background: Effective parent-child communication is crucial in pediatric nursing, especially for children with life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. Despite the importance of open dialogue, many parents struggle to communicate effectively with their children about treatment and prognosis, often due to fear, emotional distress, and cultural factors.

Methods: This study conducted an integrative review of the literature on parent-child communication in pediatric palliative care. A comprehensive search was performed across six electronic databases, including Medline and CINAHL, utilizing a combination of MeSH terms and keywords related to "parent," "child," "palliative care," and "communication," for publications in English from inception until June 2023.

Results: The review identified key facilitators and obstacles to effective communication. Facilitators included legacy-making activities and resilience training, which enhanced emotional expression and understanding. Conversely, barriers such as mutual protection, fear of distressing children, and lack of adequate communication skills significantly hindered open discussions. Approximately 40% of parents reported avoiding conversations about prognosis and mortality, indicating a need for targeted interventions.

Conclusion: Enhancing parent-child communication in pediatric palliative care is essential for improving the quality of life for both children and their families. Healthcare providers must prioritize training in effective communication strategies, promote open dialogues, and encourage legacy-making to strengthen familial bonds. The findings underscore the necessity of addressing both emotional and practical challenges to foster a supportive environment for children facing serious illnesses.