Intensive Crit Care Nurs. 2025 Nov 24;93:104279. doi: 10.1016/j.iccn.2025.104279. Online ahead of print.
INTRODUCTION: The presence of family members during invasive procedures in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units is limited, despite its emotional benefits. Exploring parents’ experiences in these contexts can help us move toward more family-centered models of care.
OBJECTIVE: (I) To explore the experiences of parents of pediatric and neonatal patients admitted to intensive care units regarding being present during invasive procedures; (II) Understand the needs, limitations, and suggestions for improvement expressed by parents regarding their presence during invasive procedures.
METHODS: Qualitative phenomenological study based on in-depth interviews with parents of pediatric patients admitted to an intensive care unit. The thematic analysis followed the approach of Braun and Clarke, and the COREQ guidelines were respected.
RESULTS: 22 parents participated in the study. Two major themes emerged from the analysis: (1) The influence of family presence during invasive procedures, and (2) Parents’ needs. Participants viewed being present as essential to fulfilling their role as caregivers, providing comfort to their children, and strengthening emotional bonds. They endorsed being present, despite the emotional burden entailed. They identified the following key needs: receiving clear information, having emotional support, having the freedom to decide whether to be present, and having a private and safe environment.
CONCLUSIONS: Parents view being present during procedures as a right and a way of exercising their parental role. It promotes the emotional well-being of the child and strengthens their relationship with professionals.
IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: The presence of family members should be encouraged through specific training for staff and support personnel. Safe environments must be created, and teams must foster a sensitive approach toward the active role of parents in caregiving.
PubMed:41289634 | DOI:10.1016/j.iccn.2025.104279