Empowering Caregivers: Addressing Needs During the Hospital-to-Home Transition for Sick Children

Objective: The primary aim of this study is to identify the needs of caregivers who are primarily responsible for caring for their children during the transition from the hospital.

Methodology: A needs assessment survey was conducted among 30 mothers whose children were admitted to the paediatric medicine ward at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar. The researcher utilized a semi-structured questionnaire alongside unstructured discussions to assess the needs and barriers faced by caregivers during hospital transitions.

Results: The findings from the semi-structured questionnaire and informal discussions revealed a range of issues, with the most significant being a lack of knowledge regarding the care domains for children in the post-transition phase. Notably, 100% of caregivers reported a lack of written care instructions as a major barrier to effective care during this period.

Conclusion: The transition period is particularly vulnerable concerning the quality of care for children, and both parents and caregivers encounter numerous challenges when moving from hospital to home. To improve this experience for patients and caregivers, it is essential to focus on caregivers' needs and the barriers they face during the hospital-to-home transition.