Attitudes and perceptions of caregivers regarding their presence at induction of anaesthesia

Abstract

Background Caregiver presence at their children’s induction of anaesthesia is practiced daily around the world. International studies demonstrated conflicting emotions in caregivers present at induction of anesthesia of their children. These positive and negative emotions ranged from comforting and reassuring, to traumatising and disturbing. Research exploring the attitudes and perceptions of caregivers regarding this practice is limited within the African context.

Aims The aim of this study was to describe caregivers’ attitudes and perceptions regarding their presence at induction of their children’s anaesthesia.

Methods This descriptive, phenomenological, qualitative study was conducted in 2020 at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, a 3200-bed facility in South Africa. Twenty caregivers of children (aged 2 to 8 years) undergoing elective surgery were recruited. Data was collected through face-to-face, in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews using purposive sampling. Interviews ranged between 11 and 55 minutes in duration and were conducted within 24 hours of induction of anaesthesia. The audio recorded interviews were transcribed and subjected to inductive reflexive thematic analysis.

Results Six themes were developed: Fulfilment of caregiver role, A positive experience, A traumatic experience, Not prepared for the experience, My world is my reality, and Your world is a place different to mine.

Conclusion A caregiver’s perception of the induction process is influenced by multiple factors. A finding specific to our cohort is the interplay between complex multifaceted cultural beliefs and anaesthesia of their children. By acknowledging and addressing these beliefs, a caregiver’s presence can be tailored to ensure a positive experience for all involved at induction