The experiences of caregivers caring for children with cord blood transplantation

BACKGROUND: Advancing technology has greatly increased cord blood transplantation (CBT) success rates. However, transplant patient caregivers may encounter a great deal of stress related to knowledge deficits with regard to post-transplant care and lack of relevant care experience. Existing studies for CBT primarily focus on investigating the transplant process and survival rate. Studies on the experience of caregivers caring for CBT children are extremely scarce. It is important for future studies to explore the care experiences of CBT caregivers. PURPOSE: This study explored the experiences of primary caregivers responsible to care for pediatric patients after CBT. METHODS: Researchers conducted a phenomenological study of lived experiences using qualitative interviews that were in-depth, face-to-face, and semi-structured. RESULTS: Colaizzi analysis identified three themes, as follows: (1) emotional transition; (2) bearing indescribable of stress; (3) searching for management in meaningful resolutions. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Study results can provide valuable insights and information to healthcare providers developing preparatory educational programs for caregivers of discharged CBT patients. Findings can help alleviate care stress and anxiety in caregivers and nurses.