Thoughts of childhood siblings while living with a child who requires medical care

Abstract

 This study aimed to understand the thoughts of childhood siblings on living with a child requiring medical care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight individuals who have siblings with illnesses. Qualitative descriptive analysis identified eight categories of thoughts. The participants understood that their ill siblings required medical care, felt mutual affection, perceived living together as normal, valued the health of their siblings with illnesses, and hoped that all family members would strive to protect their children with illnesses. The participants recognized the positive and negative aspects of living together, expressed concerns for other siblings of children with illnesses, and hoped for a better society in which children requiring medical care and their families could thrive. This study highlights the importance of nursing support focusing on siblings’ developmental stages and changes in their relationships with children requiring medical care. This underscores the significance of engaging with siblings while observing whether they can express their feelings, provide information on available services for siblings, and create opportunities for the public to learn about children requiring medical care and their families.