J Pediatr Nurs. 2024 Sep 7;79:100-106. doi: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.08.028. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To describe the perceived physical and psychological needs of parents of children with allergic diseases and asthma regarding allergy management in preschools and schools.
METHODS: We conducted a semi-structured focus group study with parents of children (ages 2-13 years) with different types of allergic diseases with/without asthma living in Stockholm, Sweden. Data were analyzed qualitative with systematic text condensation.
RESULTS: Across 4 focus groups, involving 25 parents, four primary themes representing parents’ expressed needs related to allergy management in preschools and schools emerged: (i) Well-implemented routines (to create an allergy-safe physical environment where personnel have clear responsibilities and communication); (ii) Allergy competence among personnel (basic and practical knowledge, being able to act in emergency situations); (iii) My child is to be treated equally (with equal conditions and for their child to being included); (iv) To feel trust (parents need to be understood, taken seriously and feel confident in the preschool/school personnel’s ability to take care of their child in a secure way).
CONCLUSION: This qualitative study shows parents needs regarding general allergy management in preschool/school. These needs emphasized well implemented allergy routines, improved allergy knowledge and competence among personnel, importance of equal conditions for children with allergic disease and establishing a trustful allergy-supportive relationship with both parents and children.
IMPLICATIONS IN PRACTICE: The study findings provide crucial insights for school administrators, teachers, and health care professionals on how to improve allergy management in preschools and schools.
PMID:39244819 | DOI:10.1016/j.pedn.2024.08.028
