Perceptions of Pediatric Nurses by Mothers of Children With Hospitalization Experience: a Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: A child's illness or hospitalization is a complex process experienced by the child, parents, and family members. Methods: The purpose of this study is to determine the perceptions of pediatric nurses by mothers of hospitalized children. It was conducted with 13 mothers of children with hospitalization experience. Semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis were performed. This study followed the COREQ checklist. Results: Four themes and seventeen subthemes emerged from the data. The themes consisted of the pediatric nurse through the eyes of mothers, mothers' positive experiences with pediatric nurses, mothers' negative experiences with pediatric nurses, and expectations from pediatric nurses. Discussion: Mothers' perceptions of pediatric nurses in the context of hospitalization experiences were influenced by their positive and negative communication experiences with the nurses. As a result of these experiences, expectations regarding the care they desired to receive from the nurses emerged. Implications for practice: The findings of this study provide insight into mothers' perceptions of nurses and nursing care. Mothers have fundamental expectations regarding enhancing nurses' communication and clinical care skills to ensure adequate support for their children and themselves throughout hospitalization. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.