Work

A qualitative study of Israeli parents’ experiences of child’s end-of-life care in a hospital setting

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Past research has revealed some of the emotional challenges parents face during their child’s end-of-life (EOL). However, the lived experiences of parents during this period, in pediatric palliative care, remain insufficiently studied and understood. The present study aimed to explore how parents experience their child’s EOL within the context of pediatric palliative care. A qualitative design with semi-structured interviews was used. Eleven parents who had lost a child in a hospital setting, including nine mothers and two fathers, were interviewed between February and May 2024. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four chronological periods were identified, representing a temporal structure encompassing the parents’ experiences and their transformation in accordance with their child’s condition. Eight distinct themes were generated: (1) “Relating to the child”; (2) “Internal struggles”; (3) “Navigating and living with decisions”; (4) “In search of transparency, sensitivity, and support”; (5) “Difficulty discussing death”; (6) “Parting with words and with touch”; (7) “The grieving process over time”; and (8) “A New Life After the Child’s Death”. Family-centered care should be flexible and attuned to parents’ evolving needs and grief, focusing on fostering communication, transparency, inclusion, and emotional support. Not applicable.

Source: BMC Psychology

DOI: 10.1186/s40359-026-05379-4

Authors: Avital Gershfeld-Litvin, Chana Einhorn-Plesser, Yael Siedner-Weintraub

Institutions: Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yafo, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Bikur Cholim Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Palliative Care and End-of-Life Issues

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,990