Relationships and dynamics in families with a child with a kidney transplant—A study of parents' everyday life experiences

Abstract

Background

Paediatric kidney transplantation is often the best choice of treatment for kidney failure with replacement therapy and represents an important change in the child's well-being. There are, however, still a number of challenges in addition to the parental role. The magnitude of intensive parental caregiving and support required by children with a kidney transplant could be disruptive to family relationships and dynamics.

Objective

To explore the experiences of family relationships and dynamics among parents of a child with a kidney transplant.

Design

An explorative study using a qualitative method.

Participants

Twelve parents (seven mothers and five fathers) of seven children with a kidney transplant were included.

Approach

A phenomenological–hermeneutic approach was applied.

Method

Semistructured, individual interviews were conducted. The data were analysed using Ricoeur's theory of interpretation on three levels: naïve reading, structural analysis and critical interpretation and discussion.

Findings

Three themes were generated: Emotions during ups and downs in everyday life; Balancing different needs among children; and Opportunities and having consideration in the family.

Conclusion

Relationships between parents that are based on mutual emotional support are significant and essential during periods of severe illness in a child. Parents who are alone or emotionally marked by their child's disease history feel vulnerable and struggle to overcome challenges. Different health situations among siblings lead to challenges in bringing up the children and emotional dilemmas among parents that impact family dynamics. Resilience in parents is a shifting phenomenon that can influence how they deal with family relationships and dynamics.