Healthcare Management for Children with Burn Injuries from the Perspectives of Parents/Carers: A Qualitative Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Paediatric burns are a global public health concern, leading to physical, psychological and social consequences for affected children. Despite the challenges faced by parents and caregivers during the hospitalisation and recovery phases, their perspectives on healthcare management remain underexplored. Aim: This systematic review aimed to synthesise the perspectives of parents and carers concerning the healthcare management of their children with burn injuries. The findings aim to inform clinical practice, policy and future research to enhance family-centred care and improve outcomes for children with burn injuries and their parents. Methodology: A systematic search was conducted across five electronic databases: CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Maternity & Infant Care, and ProQuest. Supplementary searches were conducted in Google Scholar. The inclusion criteria focused on qualitative studies exploring parents’ and carers’ perspectives on paediatric burn management. The search results were screened in Covidence by two reviewers independently. Data relating to the experiences of parents and caregivers on the healthcare management of paediatric burns were extracted by one reviewer. The quality of the included studies was assessed by one reviewer using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool for Qualitative Research. A second reviewer checked 20% of the extracted data and quality appraisals. Data were then synthesised through thematic analysis by the method established by Thomas and Harden. Results: Fourteen studies were included in this review. The quality of the included studies ranged from six, indicating low quality, to ten, indicating high quality. Three main themes emerged: (i) parents’/caregivers’ perspectives on burn care challenges and support during hospitalisation and after discharge, highlighting barriers to and facilitators of parental involvement in their children’s treatment, non-professional support needs during hospitalisation, and financial, logistical and transition to home challenges; (ii) caregivers’ experiences of healthcare providers, showcasing both positive and negative experiences and gaps in communication and information needed for carers; and (iii) current and future concerns regarding the recovery and treatment of burn-injured children, including physical, psychological and social challenges. Conclusion: Effectively implementing family-centred care in paediatric burn care and incorporating social support are vital to address caregivers’ needs during hospitalisation and after discharge care. Improving healthcare providers’ communication skills, fostering a supportive environment for healthcare providers and integrating multidisciplinary care are essential to addressing parental challenges and optimising patient outcomes. Additionally, incorporating telehealth and parental feedback into care protocols can further enhance care delivery and collaboration among healthcare providers and caregivers, contributing to enhanced patient outcomes. Finally, cooperation among healthcare providers, policymakers and researchers is needed to bridge the gaps in paediatric burn management, improve outcomes, and support caregivers and burned children.