MANAGEMENT OF CHILDHOOD HYDROCEPHALUS IN OUR CENTRE: PARENTS‘ KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCES AND EXPECTATIONS

Ogunleye Olabisi O.; Ismail Nasiru J.; Lasseini Ali; Shehu Bello B.

Volume : VII, Issue : IV, April - 2018

MANAGEMENT OF CHILDHOOD HYDROCEPHALUS IN OUR CENTRE: PARENTS‘ KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCES AND EXPECTATIONS

Ogunleye Olabisi O. , Ismail Nasiru J. , Lasseini Ali, Shehu Bello B.

Abstract :

BACKGROUND

Childhood hydrocephalus is a surgical condition and ventriculo-peritoneal shunting is the mainstay of treatment. The shunt is prone to malfunction and this complication is challenging to parents and health professionals. Adequate knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment of childhood hydrocephalus by the parents is essential for optimum care and follow up.

The aim of this study was to assess parents� knowledge, experiences and expectations of their child with hydrocephalus.

METHOD

A cross-sectional based interview study was carried on One-hundred and forty parents who are living with child that has hydrocephalus. The interviews were done in the Neurosurgery Outpatient Clinic of our hospital using question guide proforma and the responses were recorded for analysis.

RESULTS

Parents demonstrated appreciable knowledge on the diagnosis of hydrocephalus, its treatment and likely complications that may arise in their child. Though they are not certain about optimum neurocognitive, physical and psychosocial development of the child in the future but experiences gather over time as they live with child have prepared them for challenges ahead.

CONCLUSION

Living with child with hydrocephalus is a life-long commitment for parents or other care givers. It is stressful but over time, parents have adapted with the challenges and stress. Also have blended these challenges and stress with their routine daily activities.