Lived Experiences of Parents with Medically Diagnosed Food Allergy or Food-Induced Anaphylaxis: An Integrative Review
Tracks
Concurrent Stream 2
| Thursday, October 17, 2024 |
| 1:30 PM - 1:50 PM |
| Tuscan Room |
Overview
Helen Falcus
Speaker
Ms Helen Falcus
Nursing Lecturer / Phd Student
Edith Cowan University
Lived Experiences of Parents with Medically Diagnosed Food Allergy or Food-Induced Anaphylaxis: An Integrative Review
1:30 PM - 1:50 PMAbstract
Background Introduction: Food allergies (FA) and food-induced anaphylaxis (FIA) are significant public health concerns, affecting 8% of children worldwide and 10% in Australia. FIA is a life-threatening reaction (FA) and (FIA) are rising globally, with Western Australia (WA) experiencing an alarming increase in anaphylaxis event rates from 70.3 per 100,000 population in 2010 to 113.9 in 2019. This surge has led to a significant increase in ambulance attendances and emergency department presentations nationally, imposing a substantial burden on healthcare systems and families affected by these life-threatening conditions.
Aim / Purpose: This integrative review aims to explore and critically appraise the literature on the lived experiences of parents whose children have medically diagnosed FA or FIA.
Methods / Intervention / Activity: Following Whittemore and Knafl's guidelines, an integrative review was conducted, focusing on literature from 2013 to 2023. Data analysis involved synthesising and appraising the extracted studies using a systematic approach.
Results / Outcome: Six papers were included, comprising three qualitative and three quantitative studies. Five themes emerged: 1) Stress and Anxiety, 2) Financial and Psychological Consequences, 3) Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), 4) Education, and 5) Lack of Support.
Conclusion / Recommendations: The review highlights an urgent need for comprehensive support systems for parents of children with FA or FIA from the emergency department to outpatient clinics. Regular screening for stress and anxiety should be integrated into clinical care, accompanied by consistent follow-up and mental health support for families. Improved education for both parents and healthcare professionals is crucial to enhance the management of FA and FIA post discharge, thereby alleviating parental burdens. Emergency discharge planning from the department is imperative for better health outcomes.
Keywords: Parent, Child, Food Allergy, Food Hypersensitivity, Experience
Aim / Purpose: This integrative review aims to explore and critically appraise the literature on the lived experiences of parents whose children have medically diagnosed FA or FIA.
Methods / Intervention / Activity: Following Whittemore and Knafl's guidelines, an integrative review was conducted, focusing on literature from 2013 to 2023. Data analysis involved synthesising and appraising the extracted studies using a systematic approach.
Results / Outcome: Six papers were included, comprising three qualitative and three quantitative studies. Five themes emerged: 1) Stress and Anxiety, 2) Financial and Psychological Consequences, 3) Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), 4) Education, and 5) Lack of Support.
Conclusion / Recommendations: The review highlights an urgent need for comprehensive support systems for parents of children with FA or FIA from the emergency department to outpatient clinics. Regular screening for stress and anxiety should be integrated into clinical care, accompanied by consistent follow-up and mental health support for families. Improved education for both parents and healthcare professionals is crucial to enhance the management of FA and FIA post discharge, thereby alleviating parental burdens. Emergency discharge planning from the department is imperative for better health outcomes.
Keywords: Parent, Child, Food Allergy, Food Hypersensitivity, Experience
Biography
My name is Helen Falcus, and I am an Anaesthetic and Recovery Nurse with 20 years of experience. I also serve as a Lecturer and Unit Coordinator for undergraduate simulation at Edith Cowan University.
Seven years ago, my life was profoundly impacted when my child was born with severe food-induced anaphylaxis and food allergies. This personal experience inspired me to focus my research on understanding and improving the lives of families affected by food anaphylaxis.
I am currently undertaking my PhD, exploring the experiences of parents of children with food-induced anaphylaxis and food allergies. My research aims to highlight the challenges these parents face and develop strategies to alleviate their burdens, ultimately improving their quality of life.
As a nurse, educator, and researcher, I am committed to advancing knowledge and support for those impacted by food anaphylaxis, ensuring families receive the care and resources they need.
