The experience of Latino parents of hospitalized children during family centered rounds

Problem: Hospitalization of a child is stressful. The parental role is altered and parents have a primary need to receive timely information. Family centered rounds (FCR) provide a mechanism to exchange information and facilitates shared decision making with the medical team while parents advocate for their child's needs. FCR has been linked to increased satisfaction and improved outcomes. A recent study suggests that Latino parents have a suboptimal experience related to language barriers and a lack of empowerment. The purpose of this study is to describe the experience of Latino parents of hospitalized children during FCR in a public safety net hospital. Methods: Using a convenience sample, written surveys in Spanish were given to 20 parents who were self-identified as Spanish speaking and had attended at least two FCR. Basic demographic data was collected. The surveys were translated into English for data analysis. Results: Demographics results: 88% mothers; average age of parent 36 years; average age of child 9.9 years; 41% had previous experience with a hospitalized child; 94% were from Mexico; 6% had not attended high school; 59% had attended some high school; 18% graduated high school and 18% attended some college; 82% spoke no English, 100% spoke Spanish at home; the average number of days in the hospital at the time of survey was 4.8; 70% were hospitalized in the Pediatric Unit, 18% in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and 12% in both. The narrative data was analyzed for common themes using an inductive approach to content analysis. Four themes were identified: valued perception, inclusion and care, facilitated communication, and meeting expectations. Conclusions: Parents report a generally positive experience during FCR. They felt their participation and input were valued and that it positively impacted their child's care. FCR helped them better understand the plan and facilitated communication between parents and the healthcare team when information was conveyed in Spanish. Latino parents want and expect to be involved in decisions affecting their child. Finding ways to increase the number of Spanish speaking staff is key.