Stress-point intervention for parents of children hospitalized with chronic conditions

Abstract

Stress-point intervention by Nurses (SPIN) is a research-based intervention that can be used to assist families whose child has a chronic condition and is repeatedly hospitalized. The intervention addresses attendant family stressors, tasks, and concerns. SPIN incorporates parent-nurse contact before admission, during hospitalization, and after discharge. A nurse assists each family to develop their unique set of coping strategies, which are shaped by the family's own concerns and resources and the nurse's expertise. The effectiveness of SPIN has been tested in two intervention studies, one based in the community and another based in ambulatory clinics. Both studies found that families receiving SPIN interventions had better parental coping and family functioning, and there was less developmental regression in the child after hospitalization. SPIN can be used by nurses having experience working with families and children. A self-directed learning program assists with understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of SPIN.