Concept Analysis of Family-Centered Care of Hospitalized Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this concept analysis is to provide a background of family-centered care of the hospitalized pediatric patient, clarify its components, and validate its significance to nursing practice and research.

Background: The concept of family-centered care in the hospital environment has been discussed in the literature for over 60 years, yet its principles remain unclear and poorly implemented. Further analysis of this concept is warranted and has the potential to promote its integration into current nursing practice by increasing awareness and clarifying the essential attributes.

Data sources: A systematic review of the literature yielded thousands of resources which were narrowed to a comprehensive list of 37 sources rich in valuable and applicable content.

Review methods: This analysis utilized the 8-step methodology of concept analysis described by Walker and Avant.

Findings: The majority of research investigating the concept of family-centered care and the hospitalized pediatric patient found was focused on defining family-centered care and surveying both families and nurses on their understanding of the concept. Little research was found exploring the relationship of family-centered care with patient and family outcomes, or patient and family satisfaction.

Conclusion: Family-centered care of the pediatric patient in the hospital environment remains an abstract concept. It is recommended as a cornerstone of modern nursing practice, yet nurses report they lack sufficient education regarding its operationalization into practice. Elucidation of characteristics coupled with education regarding principles of the concept has the potential to augment further integration of family-centered care in the hospital environment.

Keywords: Concept analysis; Concept analysis of family-centered care; Family nursing; Family-centered care; Hospitalization; Pediatric nursing.