Families’ transition to a Canadian paediatric hospice. Part two: results of a pilot study

Abstract

The results from a pilot study are reported in this article, part two of a two-part paper. The experiences of parents (six mothers and two fathers) are described as their families transitioned to the Canuck Place Children's Hospice (CPHC) in Canada. The perspectives of non-hospice health care professionals (n=4) involved in the child's care are explored. Data were gathered through audio-taped, semi-structured interviews. Initially, parents and health professionals were unaware that the hospice provided more than just end-of-life services. Parents began to consider hospice care when something changed in their lives that forced them to see things differently. This became the impetus for recognizing that CPCH might be a resource for their family. The prospect of respite care was usually the deciding factor in applying to the hospice. Parents reported benefits of hospice respite for themselves and the whole family. Recommendations for practice and future research are offered, including discussion about the feasibility of the study procedures.