Educational Benefits of Nurse-Led Family-Focused Care for Children with Congenital Heart Defects: A Comprehensive Evaluation

Abstract

Background:  Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth that can affect a child's overall health, growth, and development. Are the most common type of birth defect, affecting approximately 1 in 100 live births. These conditions often require complex medical interventions and long-term management, significantly impacting the health and well-being of affected children and their families. This approach recognizes that parents play a crucial role in their child's care and education. By involving families in the care process, nurses can help create a supportive environment that addresses the unique needs of children with CHDs. The management of CHDs involves a multidisciplinary approach, where the role of nurses, particularly in family-focused care, has become increasingly vital. A comprehensive evaluation of these practices is essential to identify best practices and optimize the care provided to these vulnerable populations. Benefits of Nurse-Led Family-Focused Care: Enhanced Communication, Emotional Support, Education and Empowerment and Holistic Care.

Objectives: this study aim to investigate the effect of educational benefits of nurse-led family-focused care among children with congenital heart defects.

Methods and Results: a quasi-experimental design to investigate the impact of an educational program on the quality of life for children with congenital heart defects. purposive sampling technique which is type of non-probability sampling methods sample of (60) participants was randomly divided into two groups of 30. The study group have been exposed to the educational program for the children with congenital heart defects by the researcher. and the control group follow the traditional program provided by the Heart Center. Then educational benefits of both groups were measured on different intervals during and after the program period.

Results: The results show statistically significant differences between two groups. Enhancement of the quality of life among the study group during the period of measurement. Appling of the educational program for children with congenital heart defects program effect positively on children with CHDs.       

Conclusion: The Family-centered educational program to improve the quality of life of children with congenital heart defects program has improved quality of life  in those children who parents attended the program.