Stress, Coping and Perceived Needs of Mothers of Children Undergoing Neurosurgery

Despite the increased survival rate of children with neurosurgical conditions as a result of advanced health care technology, for many the prognosis is poor, life expectancy is unknown, and future quality of life is unpredictable. Thus, the impending loss of the child is found to be a major source of parental stress. Little research has been done to investigate the underlying mechanisms of parent stress and coping. The aim of the current study is to explore the current stressors; coping strategies and needs of mothers of children undergoing neurosurgery. A descriptive exploratory research design was adopted to carryout the study. Total of 50 mothers caring for children undergoing neurosurgery in the surgical ward in Cairo University Specialized Pediatric Hospital were recruited. An interview questionnaire contains sociodemographic data about children and mothers, an Anxiety Scale of parents by Spilberger (1970) and Ways of Coping Instrument by Lazarus and Folkman (1984) were the tools used to collect the required data. Results revealed that, mothers experienced high level of anxiety and stress from deteriorated child s health condition, fear of loosing the child, child s appearance, uncertainty about prognosis, child s suffering, alterations in the child behaviors and financial burdens. Coping strategies were praying; seeking information and keeping on hoping. Their needs were focused on seeking information, alleviation of child s suffering and social and financial support. The study recommended that, pediatric surgical nurses must play as holders of hope, bridge builders and advocate for caring for children with Neurosurgical conditions.