Mairet-Mabboux S, Blache T, Koffel C, Schlatter S, Bulescu C, Tortigue M, Lalin O, Piriou V, Henaine R, Lilot M
J Pediatr Health Care 2025 Nov
doi: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2025.09.019
PMID: 41201415
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Parental distress is prevalent in Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Units (PCICU) and may persist beyond discharge. While several stressors have been identified, the influence of medical equipment on anxiety and perceived stressors remains underexplored.
Methods: This prospective longitudinal study in a quaternary PCICU included parents of children undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Participants were grouped by equipment exposure at admission: Thoracic Drains (TD), TD+EndoTracheal Tube (TD+ETT), and TD+ETT+ExtraCorporeal Life Support (TD+ETT+ECLS). Anxiety was assessed using the STAI-Y and stressors with eight Visual Analog Scales. Questionnaires were completed at admission (baseline) and after each equipment removal.
Results: Ninety-eight parents were included. Baseline anxiety and perceived stressors differed significantly between groups (p < .05). Anxiety and at least one stressor score decreased after each equipment removal.
Discussion: Anxiety and perceived stressors varied according to the type and level of equipment, suggesting an interaction effect. This should be considered in interventions to optimize parental well-being.
Keywords: Parental mental health; congenital heart disease; medical equipment; postoperative care; stressors.
