Keywords
Pediatric Nursing
Family
Qualitative Research
Adolescent
Child
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction. The concept of family in pediatric care is central to the implementation of Family-Centred Care (FCC), yet it remains ambiguously defined in clinical practice. Existing definitions are often limited to traditional structures and rarely reflect the perspectives of children, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
Methods. A qualitative study using thematic analysis was conducted in a pediatric hospital setting. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 22 healthcare professionals, 29 caregivers, and 8 adolescents. Data were analysed following an inductive approach. The study was reported according to COREQ guidelines.
Results. Five main dimensions of family emerged: structure, relationship, care and support, context, and choice. The findings highlight a shift from traditional structural definitions toward more relational and subjective understandings. Differences across participant groups were observed: caregivers emphasised structural aspects, while adolescents and healthcare professionals highlighted relational and functional dimensions.
Discussion. The findings support a reconceptualisation of family as a dynamic, multidimensional construct shaped by context and individual perspectives. This has significant implications for the implementation of FCC and the application of the Fundamentals of Care framework in pediatric settings.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Simona Calza, Silvia Rossi, Eleonora Perlesi, Roberta Da Rin Della Mora, Nicoletta Dasso, Giulia Ottonello, Giuseppe Caracciolo Minniti, Ilaria Artuso, Silvia Scelsi