'Being a Good Parent' for Seriously Ill Children in Brazil: A Qualitative Semantic Analysis

Abstract

Background: Most studies on 'being a good parent' focus on North American populations, leaving a gap in understanding parents' cultural beliefs and definitions in other regions. Cultural values, societal norms and personal experiences shape these beliefs, influencing their caregiving roles and actions.

Aims: This qualitative study explored Brazilian parents' beliefs about being 'good parents' to seriously ill children in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and examined parents' descriptions of healthcare professionals' behaviours that support them in this role.

Study design: The study used a convenience sample of 15 parents of 15 children diagnosed with life-threatening clinical conditions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using inductive semantic content analysis.

Results: The analysis revealed four primary themes: 'Being present for my child' (n = 12, 80%), where parents highlighted the need for continuous physical and emotional availability; 'Providing protection' (n = 5, 33%), emphasising their role in safeguarding their child's well-being; 'Maintaining emotional balance and patience' (n = 2, 13%), which reflected the emotional regulation needed to navigate the PICU experience; and 'Effective communication with healthcare professionals' (n = 2, 13%), underscoring the importance of clear information and collaborative decision-making. These themes reflect core parental values, including unwavering support, ensuring their child's safety and maintaining a sense of control in the uncertain environment of the PICU.

Conclusions: The study reveals Brazilian parents' beliefs about being a 'good parent' in the PICU, emphasising the importance of parental presence, specific behaviours and family unity in ensuring their child's well-being. It also highlights the role of effective communication and information from healthcare professionals, which allows parents to make informed decisions and engage actively in their child's care.

Relevance to clinical practice: Understanding Brazilian parents' cultural beliefs and expectations underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to caregiving in the PICU, where critical care nurses play a key role. By providing emotional support, clear communication and guidance, nurses can help parents navigate their caregiving role, reducing stress and enhancing parental involvement. Tailoring communication and support strategies to these needs can strengthen family-centred care and improve the overall experience for parents and their seriously ill children.

Keywords: childcare; critical care; parenting; patient care planning; qualitative study.