Experiences of Mothers with a Child with a History of Esophageal Atresia at Preschool Age: a Phenomenological Study

Background: Esophageal Artesia is one of the neonatal malformations that has contradiction with life and is neonatal surgery emergency. This anomaly makes many problems for mothers because they have to look after their operated babies. Due to this illness in digestion system and negative effect on infant nutrition, growth and development, it might result in mother’s and child’s unsuitable quality of life for many years. Methods: The study uses a qualitative approach to phenomenology. Sampling method is based on objective and is done until data saturation. Information from۱۶ unstructured interviews with ۱۰ mothers who have children with a history of Esophageal Artesia surgery has been collected. Colaizzi method is used for data analysis.Results: Interviews were extracted and analyzed. Seven themes and sub concepts were identified which were: ۱-knowledge and awareness,۲- readiness for acceptance and compatibility with the child's medical condition, ۳-support and companionship,۴- effective services of health care system, ۵-concern and anxiety,۶- tough and difficult moments of living with pediatric patients and complications ۷- disease problems of Esophageal Artesia in children.Conclusions: The results of this study represent a wide range of problems and needs of mothers with a child with Esophageal Artesia. Child’s parents often have not adequate education, support of the treatment team, and don’t follow up after they leave hospital. Therefore, with forming multipurpose group in hospital and home visiting mother and child as a cure, attention was paid until child’s health condition recovered.

کلیدواژه ها:

Child Atresia Esophageal ، Mothers Experience. Phenomenological Study