Parents of kids who need complex medical care at home tend to resolve frequent safety issues on their own, study finds
Approximately 1 in 20 U.S. children younger than 18 years of age are medically complex, meaning they have multiorgan system conditions like cerebral palsy and depend on implanted tube-related medical technology. These children receive most of their care at home, with parents responsible for handling complicated devices and managing intricate medication and nutrition regimens. In doing so, parents…
Approximately 1 in 20 U.S. children under the age of 18 have medically complex conditions, requiring most of their care at home. Parents of these children commonly encounter safety challenges, such as medical supply issues or device malfunctions, and often develop creative solutions without consulting their child's care team, according to a study from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago.
Lead author Peter Walsh noted that while parents' resourcefulness is commendable, stronger communication between parents and healthcare teams could help prevent safety events and create a safer environment for these children. The study surveyed 21 parents of medically complex children, finding that supply problems, device malfunctions, and care irregularities were the most common safety challenges.
Researchers recommend improving communication, tailoring care plans to individual families, and establishing clear support contacts to enhance at-home care safety.
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